Conclusions
Our findings suggest that from a standpoint of chemosensation, human and mouse larynges are biologically similar. This suggests that a murine model can be used effectively in laryngeal chemosensory research. Level of evidence: NA Laryngoscope, 130:423-430, 2020.
Methods
Using immunohistochemistry, we identified taste cells and polymodal nociceptive nerve fibers in the arytenoid area of the laryngeal epithelium of the following: 1) infants undergoing supraglottoplasty for laryngomalacia, and 2) a cadaveric specimen procured from a 34-year-old donor. We then compared these findings to both preweanling and mature mouse tissue.
Results
Arytenoid tissue from both human and mouse contained many taste buds containing type II taste cells-bitter, sweet, or umami sensing-which were innervated by nerve fibers expressing P2X3 type adenosine triphosphate receptors. Type III cells (acid responsive) were also present, but they were fewer in human tissue than in equivalent tissue from mice. In both species, the epithelium was densely innervated by free nerve endings. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that from a standpoint of chemosensation, human and mouse larynges are biologically similar. This suggests that a murine model can be used effectively in laryngeal chemosensory research. Level of evidence: NA Laryngoscope, 130:423-430, 2020.