Expression of endothelin A- and B-receptors in human nasal mucosa.

Several studies have suggested an important role for the endothelin (ET) family of peptides in the vascular regulation of the nose. In addition, there is increasing evidence that ETs play a role in allergic airway inflammation. Endothelin is produced locally in the nose and mediates its effects via two distinct receptor subtypes, termed ET(A) and ET(B). Using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, mRNAs encoding ET(A)- and ET(B)-receptors were detected in the human lower turbinate and sinus mucosa. The possibility of local release of ETs in connection with specific target receptors suggests a role for endothelin in the regulation of vascular tone, glandular secretion and epithelial functions.