Abstract:

Chronic rhino-sinusitis is characterized by persistent inflammation of the nasal and paranasal mucosa and is currently classified into two major subgroups on the basis of the absence or presence of nasal polyps. Current studies show that tissue remodeling existed in the chronic rhino-sinusitis developing. Transforming growth factor-beta and matrix metalloproteinases are critical factors involved in the remodeling process. To understand which kind of cytokine is involved and how it works will contribute to choose the best therapeutic target. Further study will be focused on the complicated pathway of tissue remodeling in chronic rhino-sinusitis.

Key words: Chronic rhino-sinusitis, Matrix metalloproteinases, Tissue remodeling, TGF-β