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Updated: Jun 17, 2026
Murine Model of Allergen Induced Asthma
Published on: May 14, 2012
Murine models of airway fungal exposure and allergic sensitization
Steven P Templeton1, Amanda D Buskirk, Brett J Green
1Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, West Virginia 26505, USA. stempleton@cdc.gov
Abstract:
Inhalation of common indoor filamentous fungi has been associated with the induction or exacerbation of allergic respiratory disease. The understanding of fungal inhalation and allergic sensitization has significantly advanced with the use of small animal models, especially mouse models. Numerous studies have employed different animal exposure and sensitization techniques, each with inherent advantages and disadvantages that are addressed in this review. In addition, most studies involve exposure of animals to fungal spores or spore extracts while neglecting the influence of hyphal or subcellular fragment exposures. Recent literature examining the potential for hyphae and fungal fragments to induce or exacerbate allergy is discussed. Innate immune recognition of fungal elements and their contribution to lung allergic inflammation in animal models are also reviewed. Though physical properties of fungi play an important role following exposure, host immune development is also critical in airway inflammation and allergy. We discuss the importance of environmental factors that influence early immune development and subsequent susceptibility to allergy. Murine studies that examine the role of intestinal microflora and prenatal or early life environmental factors that promote allergic sensitization are also evaluated. Future studies will require animal models that accurately reflect natural fungal exposures and identify environmental factors that influence immune development and thus promote respiratory fungal allergy and disease.
Insights
Inhaling indoor fungi can trigger allergies. This review highlights how animal models advance our understanding of fungal allergy, emphasizing the role of fungal fragments and environmental factors in immune development.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Environmental Health
- Allergology
Background:
- Indoor filamentous fungi are linked to allergic respiratory diseases.
- Small animal models, particularly mice, have improved understanding of fungal inhalation and sensitization.
- Existing research often overlooks the impact of hyphal and subcellular fungal fragments on allergy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on fungal inhalation and allergic sensitization using animal models.
- To discuss the role of fungal fragments (hyphae, subcellular) in inducing or exacerbating allergies.
- To evaluate the influence of environmental factors and host immune development on respiratory fungal allergy.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on animal models for fungal allergy.
- Analysis of studies involving spore, hyphal, and subcellular fungal fragment exposures.
- Evaluation of research on innate immune recognition and lung inflammation.
- Assessment of studies on environmental factors influencing immune development and allergy.
Main Results:
- Animal models have significantly advanced the study of fungal allergy.
- Fungal spores, hyphae, and fragments can all contribute to allergic responses.
- Host immune development, influenced by environmental factors, is critical in allergy susceptibility.
- Intestinal microflora and early-life exposures play a role in allergic sensitization.
Conclusions:
- Future animal models should mimic natural fungal exposures for better insights.
- Identifying environmental factors influencing immune development is key to preventing respiratory fungal allergy.
- A comprehensive understanding requires considering fungal components, host immunity, and environmental influences.
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