Neural control of the human nasal mucosa

Respiratory nasal mucosa fulfils the function of pretreating the inspired air. The periodic nasal cycle and pathologic functional disturbances of the endonasal tissue influence the nasal passages. The secretion of the seromucous glands and extravasation from the blood vessels are essential for mucocilliary transport. These physiological mechanisms are partially controlled by neural regulation. Besides classic neurotransmitter neuropeptides such as VIP, CGRP, SP and NPY, nitric oxide also shares this role. A network of sensory, sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve fibres protects the respiratory mucous membranes from external and internal irritation. In addition, blood vessels and glands are influenced by endothelial and Immoral factors. For the different types of rhinitis, sensory neuropeptides and inflammatory mediators take part in the patho-mechanisms and can lead to a so called neurogenic inflammation of the nasal mucosa.