Analysis on correlation between SP and NK-1R and intranasal mucosal contact point headache

ABSTRACT

Conclusion Distribution of SP and NK-1R, especially NK-1R, in nasal mucosal tissue at contact point was higher compared with non-contact point. It was suggested that SP and NK-1R were associated with mucosal contact point headache. Objectives To observe difference of substance P (SP) and NK-1 receptor (NK-1R) expression in tissues at contact point and non-contact point among the patients with intranasal mucosal contact point headache and speculate the role of SP and NK-1R in mucosal contact point headache. Methods SP and NK-1R in tissues of contact point and non-contact point among 40 patients with intranasal mucosal contact point headache were stained histologically by immunohistochemistry, and the mRNA level was detected by RT-PCR. Results SP was located in cytoplasm of acini epithelial cells, distributed in nasal mucosa tissues at both contact point and non-contact point. However, stain intensity was significantly increased at contact point (Z = −2.554, p < 0.05). NK-1R was located in the cytoplasm of acinar epithelial cells, inflammatory cells, and nerve fibers of contact point; only in cytoplasm of acinar epithelial cells and nerve fibers of non-contact point. Tinctorial rate of NK-1R increased significantly at contact point (χ² = 40.438, p < 0.01). mRNA level of SP and NK-1R was up-regulated in nasal mucosa at contact point compared with non-contact point.

Keywords:

• Headache
• contact point
• substance P
• NK-1 receptor

Acknowledgment

Funding: Major project of Scientific Research Plan of Beijing Educational Committee (KM201310025026).

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.