Mouse models, anaphylaxis

This chapter highlights the mechanisms responsible for mast cell activation during anaphylactic responses to environmental substances. In addition to discussing in detail the activation of mast cells and basophils by IgE and antigen, we also will describe how mouse models have been used to analyze the importance of various proteins, cells, mediators and activation mechanisms in the expression of anaphylaxis in that species. 

Although human anaphylaxis is a systemic reaction, the mouse model of passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PGA) has been used extensively to enhance our understanding of mechanisms which also may contribute to systemic anaphylaxis. Unlike systemic anaphylaxis in the mouse, PGA appears to be entirely dependent on mast cells [4,6]. While IgE appears to be the primary antibody isotype that mediates PCA reactions in actively immunized mice, activation of FcyRIII by a fraction of IgGl antibodies (called anaphylactic IgGl) can also mediate PCA reactions in mice [4]. 

Finkelman FD Anaphylaxis lessons from mouse models. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2007 120 506-515. 

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