Increased expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 in nasal polyps.

Objective: The formation and growth of nasal polyps requires remodeling of the extracellular matrix. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of endopeptidases that can collectively degrade almost all extracellular matrix components. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of MMPs in nasal polyps.

Mucin gene expression in the effusions of otitis media with effusion.

Objectives: The purpose of the study is to know if mucin gene expression can be detected in the middle ear effusion and if so, which mucin genes are expressed in the effusions.

Methods: Mucin gene expression in the middle ear effusions obtained from five patients with otitis media with effusion were analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Ribonucleic acids (RNAs) were extracted from the effusion and the expression of 12 mucin genes was analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction.

Mucociliary transport function and damage of ciliated epithelium.

The influence of epithelial damage on mucociliary transport was studied in relation to the amount of mucus. The mucosal epithelium of mucus-depleted frog palate was dissected and mounted on a plastic plate. Mechanical damages were created on the frog mucosa by pressing a different thickness of boards (2, 3, 5, and 8 mm).