Development and translational validation of a novel mouse model for allergic rhinitis

An estimated 30% of North Americans suffer from seasonal or perennial rhinitis, with allergens from cats being a common trigger. Cat allergic rhinitis (cat-AR) is a significant risk factor for more severe allergic diseases like asthma. Current therapies often fail to fully control symptoms, and developing new treatments is hindered by the absence of suitable preclinical models.

To address this need, researchers established a novel mouse model that closely mimics human cat allergen exposure. The model involved exposing participants to airborne natural cat dander (CD) in a controlled environment. Nasal immune cells and IgE concentrations in the serum and nasal samples of the participants were evaluated.

In the mice, a 14-day intermittent intranasal sensitization and challenge protocol was developed using the same CD allergens. Clinical signs in the mice were objectively measured using AI-based video detection. Cellular changes within the nose were assessed with high spatial resolution.

The results demonstrated that CD exposure in humans led to increased nasal symptoms and eosinophil influx. Similarly, CD-sensitized mice displayed key clinical features, including heightened nasal rubbing, elevated nasal immune cell infiltration, and systemic sensitization. Further analysis revealed substantial changes in the turbinate and olfactory regions of the nose.

This novel mouse model offers a valuable translation platform for investigating both local and systemic mechanisms of cat-AR. It will facilitate the evaluation of mechanistic processes and therapeutic approaches, ultimately aiming to enhance clinical translation and therapeutic precision for cat allergic rhinitis.