Role of eosinophils and cell adhesion molecules in the allergen-induced asthmatic response of rats.

Abstract

To evaluate the airway infiltration of eosinophils in the asthmatic responses of Brown-Norway rats, which were sensitized with ovalbumin, the time course of eosinophil infiltration and respiratory resistance (Rrs) after ovalbumin challenge was measured. The effect of treatment with monoclonal antibody against ICAM-1 and CD18 was studied. Finally, the expression of ICAM-1 and CD18 in the airway was investigated. All rats showed Rrs increase 6-7 hours after ovalbumin challenge, indicating a late asthmatic response (LAR). Animals with LAR had higher eosinophil counts than those with an immediate asthmatic response (IAR) and in the sensitized but nonchallenged animals. Rats treated with the antibodies showed significantly smaller increases in Rrs and lower eosinophil counts than the control animals. Immunohistochemical staining in airway was performed. ICAM-1 immunoreactivity was positive on both the epithelium and the vascular endothelium of a trachea section, and on the pulmonary vascular endothelium. ICAM-1 expression was upregulated after challenge. The number of CD18-positive cells in sections of trachea and lung increased after challenge. Our results show that eosinophil infiltration is important in LAR development and the treatment with antagonists of ICAM-1 and CD18 may provide a therapeutic approach to reducing asthmatic symptoms.