Consensus on the methodology for experimental studies in allergic rhinitis

Abstract

Objectives: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a symptomatic disorder of the nose induced by allergen exposure, which triggers immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated inflammation of the nasal membranes. Allergic rhinitis is one of the most common health problems and has a major effect on the quality of life. Methods: In this review, we aimed to provide a consensus for experimental studies on allergic rhinitis in terms of allergic rhinitis models. For this purpose, we searched for experimental studies in the PubMed, Proquest Central, and Google electronic databases over a 20-year period from the current time (1996-2016). The literature survey was performed using keywords including "allergic rhinitis", "experimental", "animal", "model", "rat", "rabbit", "guinea pig", and "mice" alone or in various combinations. The search identified a total of 285 papers, which were included in this review. Results: It is vital to select a suitable animal for an allergic model. Rodents like rats, guinea pigs, and mice can produce allergen-specific antibodies with the use of adjuvants. Rats are cheap and the vast majority of the allergen-specific antibodies are immunoglobulin E (IgE). Still, intraperitoneal sensitization is inescapable and adjuvants are required for sensitization. Rats, mice, rabbits, and guinea pigs can be utilized for this reason. Conclusion: This review presented allergic rhinitis models in rats, mice, guinea pigs, and rabbits. Using these methods, researchers may perform well-designed studies.