A comprehensive model of allergic rhinitis in guinea pigs

M. Al Suleimani, Dong Ying, Michael J.A. Walker*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

20 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Introduction: The economic and social impact of allergic rhinitis is substantial. The effectiveness of currently available medications is limited and therefore investigations for more effective drugs is essential. This study was intended to establish a model of allergic rhinitis in guinea pigs that can be utilized for further investigation of new drugs. Methods: Male Dunkin Hartley guinea pigs were sensitized intranasally to, and challenged with, ovalbumin. Sneezing (SN) and nose rubbing (NR) response to allergen challenge were observed on day 21 post-initiation of sensitization in conscious guinea pigs. Nasal blockade (NB), leukocyte infiltration, and lung inflation pressure (LIP) were assessed in the same guinea pigs 23-28 days post-initiation of sensitization. A ventilator/flow method was used to measure NB and LIP. Leukocyte infiltration into nasal lavage fluid 60 min after challenge in the same animals was recorded as total and differential cell counts. Results: Sensitized guinea pigs produced acute allergic responses after allergen challenge. This was characterized by increases in SN, NR, NB, and eosinophil infiltration. In addition, intranasal allergen challenge did not change lung inflation pressure. Discussion: Allergen-induced rhinitis in guinea pigs resembles that in humans. The model reported in this study can be used to reflect the effectiveness of drugs currently used to treat allergic rhinitis and to investigate new potential drugs for the treatment of allergic rhinitis.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)127-134
Number of pages8
JournalJournal of Pharmacological and Toxicological Methods
Volume55
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Mar 2007
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Cellular infiltration
  • Guinea pig
  • Methods
  • Ovalbumin
  • Rhinitis
  • Sensitization

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Toxicology
  • Pharmacology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'A comprehensive model of allergic rhinitis in guinea pigs'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this