Mucin Expression in Nasal Polyps

As a part of the airway mucosa, nasal polyps express a wide range of mucin genes and proteins. Nasal polyps express the first nine mucin genes studied so far (MUCs1–4, 5AC, 5B and 6–8). More mucin genes are expected to be expressed in nasal polyps. The wide range of mucin expression patterns reflects a wide range of internal and external environmental factors involved in the development of nasal polyps. Mucin genes up-regulated in nasal polyps include MUC1, 2, 4, 5AC, 5B and 8. Sub-mucosal glands play a more important role in mucin expression than surface epithelium. Most of the studies on mucin expression in nasal polyps are focused on basic science. The role of steroids in modulating mucin gene expression in nasal polyps is still unclear. Further studies are needed to illustrate the role of different variables that control mucin expression in nasal polyps. The role of inflammatory mediators needs to be studied to help invent new treatment modalities.