The sheep asthma model

The proprietary Allergenix sheep model of human asthma is based on a relevant, major human allergen, house dust mite (HDM). Sensitized sheep display high HDM-specific IgE serum titers and an elevated bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) eosinophilia following lung challenge with HDM. Using this model we are able to monitor physiological parameters (airway mechanics) in response to allergen challenge and perform parallel immunological studies.

We anticipate that this model will facilitate the design of more targeted and rational therapies for the control of allergic asthma

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Advantages of the Allergenix sheep asthma model

Similar lung pathophysiology to humans, with respect to:

• Lung size, anatomy and development
• Bronchial circulation and airway innervations
• Characteristics of mast cells and mucus production
• High serum IgE and allergic inflammation in the lungs after allergen challenge

Direct comparison with human indicators of asthma

• Comparable measures of lung mechanics, performed in non-anaesthetized animals
• Simultaneous measurement of both physiological and immunological parameters in blood and lungs
• Use of relevant human allergens

Similar responsiveness to therapeutic intervention

• Reactive to bronchospastic agents and antagonists effective in humans
• Responsive to human drug/antagonist treatments