Murine animal models to study the central role of T cells in immediate-type hypersensitivity responses.

The development of allergic sensitization and inflammation is dependent on activation and stimulation of T cells that exhibit pro-allergic functions. A mouse model system was developed to study the role of T cells in allergic sensitization in more detail. Local sensitization of mice stimulates an allergen specific IgE/IgG1 response that is associated with the development of immediate type skin test responses and increased airway responsiveness (AR). Strains of mice are identified that are high or low responder animals for allergens including ovalbumin and house dust mite. Each allergen stimulates a different pattern of T-cell receptor V beta expressing T cells in local draining lymph nodes. To induce a state of increased AR, at least two separate events are required. The first event is the presence of allergen specific IgE/IgG1. The second event is characterized as a local allergen challenge at the site of the response. These T cells play a critical role in the regulation of the allergic immune response including IgE production and increased AR. Based on these results intervention strategies can be developed which specifically target the development and function of these allergen specific T-cell populations and modify their pro-allergic activities.