Our Summary

This research study investigates the role of a protein called Twist in the development of a condition called eosinophilia in allergic rhinitis (AR), a type of inflammation in the nose that occurs when the immune system overreacts to allergens in the air.

The researchers used nasal tissue samples from patients with chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps, some of whom also had AR. They found that there were lots of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell that plays a key role in the body’s immune response) in these tissues, regardless of whether the patient had AR or not. However, in those with AR, there was significantly higher activity of a protein called Ras, which was linked to the eosinophils being resistant to cell death (apoptosis).

The researchers also found that the level of the Twist protein (which inhibits apoptosis) was higher in the eosinophils of patients with AR. This was linked to the high level of Ras activity. They discovered that exposure to a type of antibody called IgG increased the level of Twist in eosinophils.

In this process, Ras activated a chain of events in the eosinophils, which led to the production of more Twist. The Twist protein then interacted with another protein to keep the Ras activity high, which in turn kept the eosinophils resistant to apoptosis.

In simple terms, the study suggests that in people with AR, a protein called Ras becomes very active in certain white blood cells, making them resistant to cell death. This activity seems to be linked to another protein, Twist, which becomes more active when the cells are exposed to a certain antibody. This chain of events could play a key role in the development of AR.

FAQs

  1. What role does the Twist protein play in the pathogenesis of eosinophilia in allergic rhinitis?
  2. How does Ras activation relate to eosinophilia in cases of allergic rhinitis?
  3. How does the IgG-sensitization induce Ras activation and Twist expression in eosinophils?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about nasal polyp removal is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of complications. This may include avoiding strenuous activities, keeping the nasal area clean, and taking prescribed medications as directed. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your recovery progress.

Suitable For

Patients with chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps with allergic rhinitis are typically recommended nasal polyp removal. This study suggests that patients with allergic rhinitis may have higher Ras activation in eosinophils, which contributes to apoptosis resistance. This information could be valuable in guiding treatment decisions for patients with nasal polyps and allergic rhinitis.

Timeline

  • Patient experiences symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing.
  • Patient undergoes diagnostic tests, such as nasal endoscopy and imaging studies, to confirm the presence of nasal polyps.
  • Patient may undergo allergy testing to identify specific triggers for their symptoms.
  • Patient consults with an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) to discuss treatment options, including medication and surgical removal of nasal polyps.
  • Patient undergoes nasal polyp removal surgery, which may be performed endoscopically or through traditional open surgery.
  • Patient experiences post-operative recovery, which may include nasal congestion, mild pain, and temporary changes in sense of smell and taste.
  • Patient follows post-operative care instructions, which may include nasal irrigation, medication management, and follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider.
  • Patient experiences relief from symptoms of allergic rhinitis and improved nasal breathing after nasal polyp removal.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications of nasal polyp removal surgery?
  2. What is the recovery process like after nasal polyp removal surgery?
  3. How long will it take for me to see improvement in my symptoms after the surgery?
  4. Will I need to take any medications or follow any special care instructions after the surgery?
  5. Are there any lifestyle changes I should make to help prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps?
  6. What is the success rate of nasal polyp removal surgery in patients with allergic rhinitis?
  7. Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional treatments after the surgery?
  8. How does the presence of Twist protein in the nasal mucosa affect the development of eosinophilia in patients with allergic rhinitis?
  9. Are there any specific tests or evaluations that can be done to determine the role of Twist protein in my case?
  10. How can the findings of this study impact my treatment plan for nasal polyps and allergic rhinitis?

Reference

Authors: Shao JB, Luo XQ, Mo LH, Yang G, Liu ZQ, Liu JQ, Liu ZG, Liu DB, Yang PC. Journal: Arch Biochem Biophys. 2021 May 15;702:108828. doi: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.108828. Epub 2021 Mar 16. PMID: 33741336