Cytokine profile in subjects with Cystic Fibrosis and nasal polyposis compared to patients with no nasal disorders

Abstract

Although the cytokine profile in nasal polyposis is well documented, little is known about cytokines associated to cystic fibrosis.

Aim: Assess the expression of cytokines IL not4, IL not5, IL not6, IL not8, GM not-CSF and IFN not-y, analyzed through RT-PCR, in the polyps of patients with cystic fibrosis.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional, prospective study was carried out with 24 patients, 13 of whom had cystic fibrosis and nasal polyposis (Cystic Fibrosis Group) and 11 had normal otorhinolaryngological exams (Control Group). The average age was 21 years (3 not57); 12 participants were males and 12 were females. The cytokine profile was studied in mucosal fragments (Control Group) or nasal polyps (Cystic Fibrosis Group) through RT notPCR. Transcriptions were studied for cytokines IL not4, IL not5, IL not6, IL not8, IFN noty and GM notCSF, adjusted for the beta not-actin value.

Results: Interleukins 5, 6, 8 and GM notCSF were similar in both groups (p>0.05). There were lower values of IFN-y not (p=0.03) and a strong tendency toward an increase in IL not4 (p=0.06) in the Cystic Fibrosis Group.

Conclusion: Inflammatory and structural cells may produce messenger RNA for IL not4, blocking the production of other cytokines such as IFN-y, suggesting the participation of this mechanism in the formation of polyps in cystic fibrosis.