The role of kinins in nonallergic rhinitis

We have shown that kinins are generated during experimentally-induced allergic rhinitis and have demonstrated that the increased concentrations of kinins in nasal secretions correlate with clinical symptoms and with the release of mast cell mediators. In the present paper we briefly describe our recent studies designed to evaluate if kinins may also play a role in some forms of nonallergic rhinitis. Three model systems were used: nasal challenge with cold, dry air, nasal challenge with hyperosmolar mannitol and infection with rhinovirus. Kinins were elevated in nasal secretions of symptomatic individuals after challenge with cold, dry air and correlated with increased concentrations of mast cell mediators. By contrast, challenge with hyperosmolar mannitol resulted in increased concentrations of histamine in nasal secretions but no generation of kinins and little, if any, symptoms of rhinitis. In those subjects displaying symptoms of rhinitis as a result of rhinovirus infection, kinin levels were clearly elevated in the absence of mast cell mediator production. We conclude that kinins are generated during some forms of nonallergic rhinis and may play a role in the pathogenesis of these conditions.