In Vivo Model Development for Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome

Protheragen offers comprehensive in vivo model development services for Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome (BOS), supporting preclinical research and therapeutic evaluation. Leveraging well-characterized rodent models, our platform enables clients to investigate the pathogenesis of BOS and assess the efficacy of novel interventions in a controlled, reproducible environment.

Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome is a severe, progressive lung disease often associated with chronic lung allograft dysfunction and post-transplant complications. Animal models are indispensable for understanding BOS pathophysiology and for preclinical testing of candidate therapies. At Protheragen, we utilize Mus musculus (C57BL/6 mice) and Rattus norvegicus (Wistar rats), each chosen for their immunological and physiological similarities to human BOS. The mouse trachea allograft model and rat orthotopic syngeneic trachea graft model recapitulate key features of airway fibrosis, immune-mediated rejection, and airflow obstruction, providing translational relevance to human disease.

Allograft Transplantation Models

This model involves the transplantation of tracheal segments from donor animals of a different genetic background into recipient mice (e.g., C57BL/6), inducing an alloimmune response that mirrors the chronic rejection seen in human BOS. The methodology includes microsurgical implantation and post-operative monitoring. Advantages include a robust and reproducible fibrotic response, well-defined immunopathology, and suitability for immunomodulatory therapy evaluation. Primary applications include mechanistic studies of chronic rejection, fibrosis, and testing of anti-rejection or anti-fibrotic agents.

Syngeneic Orthotopic Graft Models

Utilizing genetically identical donor and recipient Wistar rats, this model involves orthotopic transplantation of the trachea to study airway repair and fibrosis in the absence of alloimmune responses. The procedure allows for the assessment of intrinsic tissue repair mechanisms and the impact of various interventions on fibrosis development. Key advantages are reduced immunological confounders and a focus on non-immune-mediated pathways. This model is ideal for evaluating anti-fibrotic drugs, regenerative therapies, and the basic biology of airway remodeling.

Chemically-Induced Models

Chemical agents such as nitrogen dioxide or bleomycin can be administered to rodents to induce airway injury and fibrosis, mimicking some aspects of BOS pathology. The methodology typically involves controlled exposure or local administration, followed by assessment of airway inflammation and remodeling. Advantages include ease of induction, scalability, and relevance to environmental or drug-induced forms of BOS. These models are primarily used for high-throughput screening of anti-fibrotic compounds and for studying mechanisms of airway injury and repair.

Protheragen delivers an end-to-end solution for BOS animal model development, including model selection, surgical procedures, post-operative care, and comprehensive data reporting. Key efficacy endpoints include histopathological analysis (airway obliteration, fibrosis scoring), lung function testing (spirometry, airway resistance), immunohistochemistry (inflammatory and fibrotic markers), and molecular assays (gene/protein expression). Our analytical capabilities encompass advanced imaging, flow cytometry, and quantitative PCR. Rigorous quality control measures are implemented at every stage, including validated protocols, standardized scoring systems, and regular health and welfare assessments to ensure data reliability and reproducibility.

Partnering with Protheragen ensures access to scientifically validated BOS animal models, expert technical support, and a collaborative approach tailored to your research objectives. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and transparency empowers clients to accelerate preclinical development and advance therapies for Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome. Contact us today to discuss your project needs and discover how our in vivo model services can drive your research forward.