Mouse models of allergic asthma.

In the last 20 years, the development of murine models of allergic asthma has provided researchers with a means to explore the mechanisms of this T-helper type 2 (Th2)-driven inflammatory disease. While systemic sensitization and airway challenge with ovalbumin has been the most widely used model, recent emphasis has been placed on the development of models using more naturally occurring antigens. However, the diversity of models currently available makes it hard for investigators new to this field to choose to use the most effective and appropriate model to test their hypothesis. Here we describe three different mouse models of allergic asthma, including the classical ovalbumin model, a modified ovalbumin model that has been shown to be mast-cell dependent, as well as a house dust mite antigen-induced model. We also discuss briefly their characterization and differences, in the aim to facilitate the choice of the appropriate model when working on this intricate Th2 inflammatory disease.