Comparison of glucocorticoid and cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonist treatments in an experimental model of chronic airway inflammation in guinea-pigs

E. A. Leick-Maldonado, F. U. Kay, M. C. Leonhardt, D. I. Kasahara, C. M. Prado, F. T. Fernandes, M. A. Martins, I. F.L.C. Tibério

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36 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Leukotriene receptor antagonists have been demonstrated in several studies to possess bronchodilating and anti-inflammatory properties in asthma. However, there are few experimental studies performed to compare the effects of anti-leukotrienes and glucocorticoids, most used anti-inflammatory agents in asthma. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of treatment with dexamethasone or montelukast on eosinophil and mononuclear cell recruitment in an experimental model of allergen-induced chronic airway inflammation in guinea-pigs (GP). Methods: GP were submitted to increasing concentrations of aerosols of ovalbumin (OVA) twice a week for 4 weeks. After 2 weeks, animals were treated daily with dexamethasone, montelukast or saline solution. After this period, GP were anaesthetized, tracheostomized, mechanically ventilated and challenged with OVA aerosol. Results: Maximal changes of respiratory system resistance and elastance induced by OVA challenge were attenuated by dexamethasone (P < 0.001), but not by montelukast treatment. Neither dexamethasone nor montelukast significantly influenced bronchial oedema formation. Dexamethasone but not montelukast induced a decrease in mononuclear cells in airways (P < 0.001). Eosinophil infiltration in the bronchial wall was reduced by both dexamethasone and montelukast (P < 0.005). Only dexamethasone treatment reduced the levels of exhaled nitric oxide (P < 0.025). Conclusion: Although leukotriene receptor antagonist treatment reduces eosinophil accumulation induced by multiple antigen challenges, glucocorticoid treatment attenuates both eosinophil and mononuclear cell infiltration.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)145-152
Number of pages8
JournalClinical and Experimental Allergy
Volume34
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2004

Keywords

  • Asthma
  • Chronic airway inflammation
  • Corticosteroids
  • Eosinophils
  • Exhaled nitric oxide
  • Experimental models of asthma
  • Leukotriene antagonists
  • Lymphocytes
  • Montelukast

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Immunology and Allergy
  • Immunology

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