Experimental Mouse Models of Asthma and the Emerging Role of in Vivo Imaging Publisher Pubmed



Rafsanjani A ; Rezaei N ; Sharif Paghaleh E
Source: Translational Research Published:2026

Abstract

Recent advances in mouse models of experimental asthma and improvements in respiratory physiology assessment have fundamentally improved preclinical research. These innovations now enable both higher translational value and more detailed mechanistic insight. Despite mouse models can reproduce discrete clinical phenotypes and endotypes, no single model can fully replicate the complexity of human asthma, thus careful selection of protocols is required to address specific research questions. Here, we review current murine protocols for modeling of asthma, compare commonly used allergens and exacerbation paradigms, and discuss how administration method, mouse strain, and scheduling influence immunophenotype and remodeling outcomes. conventional terminal readouts (bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cytology, histology, serology, plethysmography) provide only a snapshot of disease progression. Therefore, we evaluated in vivo imaging techniques—such as micro-computed tomography, MRI, PET/SPECT, and optical imaging—as a complementary approach for longitudinal, noninvasive assessment of structure, function and molecular signatures in asthma experimental models. In conclusion, refined murine models that better recapitulate distinct human endotypes, combined with validated and standardized imaging biomarkers, will bridge the translational gap and accelerate the identification of therapeutics for more effective, patient-centered asthma care. © 2026 Elsevier Inc.