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

Abstract

ABSTRACTConclusion 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.