Evaluation of nasal barrier dysfunction at acute- and late-phase reactions in a guinea pig model of allergic rhinitis.

Allergic rhinitis is a common disease characterized by the symptoms of pruritus, sneezing, hypersecretion and nasal blockage. Increased mucosal barrier permeability has been suggested to be an indicator for the severity of allergic rhinitis. This study investigates the passage of radiolabelled albumin from the nasal mucosal circulation into the lumen in guinea pigs intraperitoneally sensitized and intranasally challenged with antigen.

Evaluation of excised lung gas volume measurements in animals with genetic or induced emphysema.

Emphysema, a leading cause of respiratory disability and mortality in humans, is characterized by destruction of alveolar walls and enlargement of airspaces. Animal studies are critical in understanding the pathogenesis of emphysema. However, current measurements of airspace enlargement and emphysema in small laboratory animals are labor intensive and may not be sensitive enough for measuring alterations in lung function and structure at the early stages of emphysema.