Expression of cyclooxygenase-1 and -2 is limited to the nasal glands in the guinea pig nasal cavity.
OBJECTIVE
To clarify the localization of cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and -2 in the nasal cavity of guinea pigs and ascertain their physiological roles.


METHODS
The distribution of the enzymes was investigated using immunohistochemistry.


RESULTS
Immunoreactivities for COX-1 and -2 were limited to the nasal glands, and no expression was noted in the surrounding vascular endothelial cells, olfactory glands, respiratory epithelium, olfactory epithelium, submucosal tissue or nerves. To confirm the specificity of the reaction, the kidneys of the same animals were prepared as positive controls. The results demonstrated localization of COX-1 and -2 in uriniferous tubules.


CONCLUSIONS
Our findings suggest that COX is involved in the secretion of nasal discharge from the nasal glands and that prostaglandins in the nasal discharge are probably secreted directly from the nasal glands.
Takiguchi
Yoshitaka
Y
Department of Otolaryngology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Graduate School, Tokyo, Japan. t_yoshi@mva.biglobe.ne.jp
Okamura
Hiro-Oki
HO
Kitamura
Ken
K
D000818:Animals; D051545:Cyclooxygenase 1; D051546:Cyclooxygenase 2; D005260:Female; D006168:Guinea Pigs; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D007527:Isoenzymes / Q000032:analysis / Q000378:metabolism*; D023421:Models, Animal; D009296:Nasal Cavity / Q000201:enzymology* / Q000473:pathology*; D009297:Nasal Mucosa / Q000201:enzymology / Q000473:pathology; D009924:Organ Culture Techniques; D011451:Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases / Q000032:analysis / Q000378:metabolism*; D012016:Reference Values; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity
D007527:Isoenzymes; D051545:Cyclooxygenase 1; D051546:Cyclooxygenase 2; D011451:Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthases