Nasal mucosal barrier

The nasal mucosal barrier is a complex, multilayered system in the nasal cavity that consists of physical (cell junctions, epithelial cells), chemical (mucus, cilia), immune (immunoglobulins, antimicrobial proteins), and microbiological (commensal microbiota) defenses[1][2][3][4]. This barrier prevents the entry of allergens, pathogens, and irritants, thus protecting the airway and contributing to immune surveillance and mucociliary clearance. Disruption of the nasal mucosal barrier leads to increased susceptibility to diseases such as allergic rhinitis and chronic rhinosinusitis. Therapeutic strategies often focus on restoring barrier integrity and function[1][3][4].

Other names

Nasal epithelial barrierNasal mucus barrierNasal defense barrier

Drugs interact with the nasal mucosal barrier by restoring physical barrier components (such as tight junctions), modulating inflammation, enhancing mucociliary clearance, and supporting microbiota homeostasis.