Olfactory and nasal epithelial cells (NEC/OEC)

Olfactory and nasal epithelial cells constitute the specialized cellular lining of the nasal cavity, serving as a critical interface between the external environment and the respiratory and nervous systems. The nasal epithelium is primarily composed of respiratory epithelial cells, which facilitate mucociliary clearance and provide an innate immune barrier, and olfactory epithelial cells, which house the sensory neurons responsible for olfaction (smell) [3.1.3, 3.2.2]. These cells are of significant clinical and pharmacological importance as they express key molecular targets, including the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor—the primary entry point for SARS-CoV-2—and the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) protein [3.1.1, 3.1.3]. Furthermore, the olfactory epithelium provides a unique nose-to-brain pathway, allowing certain therapeutic agents to bypass the blood-brain barrier via olfactory neurons [3.2.1, 3.2.3]. Dysregulation or damage to these cells is associated with conditions such as allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, and anosmia, and they are the primary site of action for intranasal corticosteroids, antihistamines, and decongestants [3.1.5, 3.2.2]. While Olfactory and nasal epithelial cells refers to a tissue/cell population rather than a single molecular target, their role in drug delivery and disease pathogenesis makes them a focal point in respiratory and neurological research [3.2.1, 3.2.4].

Other names

Nasal epithelial cellsOlfactory epithelial cellsNasal mucosaOlfactory mucosaSchneiderian membraneNasal lining

Agonism of glucocorticoid receptors, antagonism of H1 histamine receptors, agonism of alpha-adrenergic receptors, and modulation of CFTR ion channels.