Monkeys infected with Ascaris suum (a new in vivo model of airway disease): protective effect of nedocromil sodium and sodium cromoglycate against bronchial antigen challenge.

The experimental infection of Macaca arctoides monkeys with the nematode parasite Ascaris suum induces an IgE-mediated immediate hypersensitivity reaction similar to that seen in naturally sensitive animals. In the present study, the effects of inhalation of Ascaris suum antigen on lung function in infected monkeys were investigated, together with the effects of aerosolized nedocromil sodium and sodium cromoglycate (each 4 mg) given 5 min prior to antigen challenge. Ascaris suum-infected Macaca arctoides monkeys bronchoconstricted when they inhaled Ascaris antigen, maximal effects being seen 2-5 min after antigen inhalation. This bronchoconstriction was inhibited by nedocromil sodium pretreatment but not by sodium cromoglycate. This animal model therefore provides a new experimental model of airways disease.