Peter Shepard '09

Interferon-gamma & Allergic Rhinitis in a Murine Model

Interferon-gamma (IFNg) is a biologically active molecule that plays a key role in our immune system. In particular, it helps shape the type of immune reaction we have to environmental challenges. It is known to promote a non-allergic immune system response, and several studies have shown that it may reduce the allergic response. No study has tested whether or not it can reduce the nasal allergy response (allergic rhinitis). We used a murine model to test the hypothesis that IFNg may reduce allergic rhinitis. Specifically, behavior measures of allergic rhinitis (sneezing, nose rubbing) and were examined following an allergy challenge at multiple time points. In addition, we examined the role of systemic and intra-nasal topic treatment with interferon-gamma at different times during the development of the allergic response. This study will help clarify IFNg’s role in the nasal allergic response. IFNg has a potential role in reducing allergies in humans, and this study is a step in that direction.

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Otolaryngology Surgery University of Wisconsin Department of Surgery
First published: 07/15/02 Last updated: 11/24/09 webmaster@surgery.wisc.edu
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