Cyclooxygenase Inhibition of LTC Stenosis in the Mouse Model

Abstract

Objective: The study explores possible therapies to decrease or prevent subglottic stenosis. We aim to study the effects of cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition on laryngotracheal granulation and stenosis in a previously described murine model. Method: Laryngotracheal complexes (LTC) were transplanted into a previously established recipient mouse model. Treatment group (n = 4) received COX inhibitor chow for 3 weeks. Control group (n = 4) did not. After 3 weeks, LTCs were harvested and examined microscopically for comparison. Relative levels of IL-1, COX2, and TGF beta were compared using RT-PCR. Results: Comparison of hematoxylin and eosin staining of granulation tissue showed no difference in lamina propria thickness between LTCs that received COX inhibitor or LTCs that did not. Also, no difference in lamina propria thickness was noted between different types of injury such as acid or wire brush. Furthermore, no further differences were noted in the RT-PCR results in the samples. Conclusion: Inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) does not lead to significant differences in granulation formation or in cytokine levels in the murine model of subglottic stenosis.