IL-1β and iNOS can drive the asthmatic comorbidities and decrease of lung function in perennial allergic rhinitis children

BACKGROUND: Allergic asthma and rhinitis (AR) are closely linked, with a significant proportion of AR patients developing asthma.

Identification of the early signs of comorbidity of AR and asthma can enable prompt treatment and prevent asthma progression.

OBJECTIVES AND METHODS: This study investigated the role of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in the comorbidity of AR and asthma and lung function in Korean children with perennial AR (PAR).

A cohort of 240 subjects (6 to 10 years old) with PAR (PAR alone: 113 children, PAR and asthma: 127 children) was analyzed for various biomarkers, including IL-1β, iNOS, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers in serum.

The blood levels of eosinophils and immunoglobulin E (IgE) were examined.

IL-1β, CCL-24, E-cadherin, and vimentin were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Epithelial iNOS was measured by the NOS kit.

RESULTS: Elevated levels of IL-1β, iNOS, and vimentin in the serum were identified as significant indicators of the likelihood of comorbidity of PAR and asthma in children.

Furthermore, higher concentrations of IL-1β, iNOS, and vimentin have been linked to reduced lung function in PAR children.

Notably, IL-1β expression shows a relationship with the levels of E-cadherin, vimentin, and CCL-24.

However, no correlation was found between IL-1β and iNOS expressions.

CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that IL-1β and iNOS can be biomarkers in the progression of PAR and asthma and decreased lung function, suggesting potential targets for early intervention and treatment.