Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 25, 2026

Acupuncture in a Rat Model of Asthma
Published on: August 25, 2020
Experimental asthma in rats
Iwona Kucharewicz1, Anna Bodzenta-Łukaszyk, Włodzimierz Buczko
1Department of Allergology and Internal Medicine, Medical University in Białystok, Skłodowskiej-Curie 24a, PL 15-276 Białystok, Poland. ikuchar@poczta.onet.pl
Abstract:
Animal models of asthma have been used for over 100 years. The accuracy of extrapolations from animal models to human asthmatics is highly dependent on the species of animal selected. The rat, in comparison with other animals, demonstrates many features of airway allergy and allergic asthma that are similar to the human conditions. The following features of human asthma can be effectively investigated in a rat model of the disease: cellular infiltration of the lung, antigen-specific IgE production, and a predominant Th2 response. The majority of available models of asthma are restricted to the acute inflammatory response following a short period of allergen exposure. The frequently used model of ovalbumin (OVA) sensitization and challenge replicates the inflammatory process in the airways.
Related Concept Videos
Asthma I: Introduction
Asthma-I: Introduction
Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations

