Rhinosectan spray (containing xyloglucan) on the ciliary function of the nasal respiratory epithelium; results of an in vitro study.

BACKGROUND

To assess the effects of Rhinosectan spray, a medical device containing xyloglucan, on nasal ciliary function (in MucilAir™Nasal cells).

METHODS

MucilAir™Nasal, a three-dimensional organotypic airway tissue model (with different cell types), was treated with Rhinosectan (30 µl) or with a control (saline solution). The effects of Rhinosectan were evaluated at 15 and 60 min post-exposure by: measurement of the cilia beating frequency (Hz), mucin detection (Enzyme-Linked Lectin Assay-ELLA), mucociliary clearance (µm/s) and phagocytosis assay (fluorescence).

RESULTS

Exposure of MucilAir™ to Rhinosectan did not alter the cilia beating frequency at 15 and 60 min post-exposure (diluted and undiluted). Exposure to Rhinosectan (undiluted) during 60 min increased mucociliary clearance (93.3 ± 2.1 µm/s vs. 80.9 ± 1.8 µm/s; p < 0.01) and phagocytic activity (1.89-fold increase) in comparison with saline solution. Moreover, a significant decrease in mucin concentration was observed after 15 min of exposure (171.4 ng/ml vs. 306.5 ng/ml; p < 0.01) and at 60 min post-treatment (242.7 ng/ml vs. 339 ng/ml; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The application of Rhinosectan to nasal epithelial cells does not impair ciliary movement, enhances mucociliary clearance and facilitates phagocytosis while reducing mucin secretion, which are optimal properties for the management of rhinitis and associated conditions.