BASIC STUDIES ON LYSOZYME

Abstract

A recent trend in the field of otorhinolaryngology is the greater use of enzyme preparations. Among such preparations, lysozyme is reported as differing from other proteolytic enzymes in that it splits up mucopolysarccharides and acts directly on the tunica propria of mucous membrane, aiding in the healing process of the tissue. It is still questionable, however, whether ingested lysozyme reaches the sinus mucosa in chronic inflammation of the sinuses. An attempt was made to solve this problem by giving lysozyme labelled with the fluorescent dye, FITC, by mouth and observing the distribution of the flucorescent lysozyme in the mucous membrane of the sinus. Fluorescence of the sinus mucosa was exhibited in 13 sides in 13 cases of the 33 sides in 22 cases studied. Three patterns in the distribution of fluorescence were distinguishable: a) along the edge of the mucosa; b) scattered throughout the entire mucosa; c) a part of epithelium; d) in clustered patches. Apparently, therefore, ingested lysozyme does reach the mucous membrane of diseased sinuses. In relation to the severity of the mucosal disease, the time of appearance of fluorescence areas in the mucosa was within 1 week in mild lesions and within 3 weeks in severe conditions. In the presence of deviated septums, fluorescence was more extensive on the side of convexity, that is, on the side of the narrowed nasal cavity. It is however necessary to consider and to investigate further the coupling of lysozyme and FITC and the fate of the coupled compound after absorption into the body.