IL-1β and iNOS May Contribute to Asthmatic Comorbidities and Decreased Lung Function in Children with Perennial Allergic Rhinitis

Abstract Background: Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis (AR) often coexist, with a significant number of AR patients eventually developing asthma. Early detection and treatment of AR can prevent disease progression and enhance the quality of life. Objectives and Methods: This study explores the roles of Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, and inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS) in the comorbidity of AR and asthma, as well as their impact on lung function in Korean children with perennial AR. A cohort of 240 subjects (aged 6-10 years old) with AR and comorbid asthma were assessed for various biomarkers, including IL-1β, iNOS, and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) markers. We examined the blood levels of eosinophils and Immunoglobulin E (IgE). IL-1β, CCL-24, E-cadherin, and vimentin were measured using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), while epithelial iNOS was evaluated with the NOS kit. Results: Our observations revealed that elevated serum levels of IL-1β, iNOS, and vimentin emerged as significant risk factors for the development of AR and asthma comorbidity. Additionally, IL-1β, iNOS, and vimentin were identified as significant risk factors for decreased lung function in children with perennial AR. Moreover, IL-1β expression was found to correlate with the expression of E-cadherin, vimentin, and CCL-24. iNOS expression correlated with the expression of CCL-24 in children with AR. However, there was no observed correlation between IL-1β and iNOS. Conclusions: This study underscores the significance of IL-1β and iNOS in the progression of AR and asthma comorbidity, suggesting them as potential targets for early intervention and treatment.