EFFECT OF SEX-HORMONES ON EOSINOPHILIC INFLAMMATION IN NASAL-MUCOSA

We examined the effects of sex hormones on the functions of eosinophil s. Treatment of eosinophils with beta-estradiol significantly enhanced the eosinophil adhesion to human mucosal microvascular endothelial ce lls (HMMEC), and eosinophils stimulated by a combination of beta-estra diol and progesterone showed significant induced degranulation. On the other hand, testosterone significantly reduced the eosinophil adhesio n to HMMEC and eosinophil viability. The experiments from this series of studies might provide a partial explanation for the aggravation of asthma and some forms of rhinitis that occurs during pregnancy.