Background Allergic asthma and rhinitis (AR) are closely linked, with a significant proportion of AR patients developing asthma. Identification of the early signs of comorbidity of AR and asthma can enable prompt treatment and prevent asthma progression.Objectives and methods This study investigated the role of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in the comorbidity of AR and asthma and lung function in Korean children with perennial AR (PAR). A cohort of 240 subjects (6 to 10 years old) with PAR (PAR alone: 113 children, PAR and asthma: 127 children) was analyzed for various biomarkers, including IL-1 beta, iNOS, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers in serum. The blood levels of eosinophils and immunoglobulin E (IgE) were examined. IL-1 beta, CCL-24, E-cadherin, and vimentin were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Epithelial iNOS was measured by the NOS kit.Results Elevated levels of IL-1 beta, iNOS, and vimentin in the serum were identified as significant indicators of the likelihood of comorbidity of PAR and asthma in children. Furthermore, higher concentrations of IL-1 beta, iNOS, and vimentin have been linked to reduced lung function in PAR children. Notably, IL-1 beta expression shows a relationship with the levels of E-cadherin, vimentin, and CCL-24. However, no correlation was found between IL-1 beta and iNOS expressions.Conclusions This study suggests that IL-1 beta and iNOS can be biomarkers in the progression of PAR and asthma and decreased lung function, suggesting potential targets for early intervention and treatment.
