TNFRSF13B/TACI Mutations in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps

Abstract

Background The pathogenesis of Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps (CRSwNP) remains still inconclusive. Recent studies identified an increased expression of BAFF (a B cell-activating factor) and its receptor TACI (Transmembrane Activator and cAML Interactor) in nasal polyp samples, while TNFRSF13B/TACI mutations have been found in patients with benign lymphoproliferative disorders and primary antibody deficiencies. Objective The aim of our study was to evaluate the possible contribution of TNFRSF13B/TACI mutations in CRSwNP pathogenesis. Methods Forty-four (44) patients with CRSwNP (male/female: 33/11, mean age: 52.5 years, range: 16-83) were analyzed for TNFRSF13B/TACI mutations by PCR-sequencing. Results No pathogenic TNFRSF13B/TACI mutations were identified in our cohort study of CRSwNP patients. We detected two common missense mutations (p.P251L and p.V220A), along with other common silent mutations and intronic polymorphisms in an identical prevalence to healthy control population. Conclusion TNFRSF13B/TACI mutations might not play a role in the pathogenesis of CRSwNP.