Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a challenging inflammatory condition affecting millions, often linked to stubborn type 2 inflammation, eosinophil infiltration, and poor response to standard treatments. A new abstract presented in the February 2026 issue of JACI spotlights a potential new player: CEACAM5 (also known as carcinoembryonic antigen or CEA), a cell adhesion molecule.
The research team, led by Humdoon Choudhry, MD, and colleagues including Richard Lockey and Seong Cho, builds on prior observations of high CEACAM5 gene expression in nasal polyp tissue. This study specifically examines both membrane-bound and soluble forms of CEACAM5 in CRSwNP patients.
Researchers documented increased production of CEACAM5 in nasal polyps compared to controls.
The study explored correlations between CEACAM5 levels and inflammatory cells (such as eosinophils or other immune effectors) as well as key cytokines driving type 2 inflammation.
The findings suggest that elevated membrane-bound and soluble CEACAM5 may contribute to the persistent inflammation characteristic of CRSwNP. This could position CEACAM5 as a biomarker or even a future therapeutic target - potentially complementing biologics like dupilumab that target IL-4/IL-13 pathways.
This early work adds to growing evidence that epithelial and adhesion-related molecules play underappreciated roles in refractory sinus disease. Larger studies will be needed to confirm mechanisms and clinical relevance, but it opens an intriguing avenue for understanding why some patients' polyps keep coming back.
References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0091674925014411