Effect of <i>Aspergillus niger</i> Spores as Aeroallergen in Intra-Nasally Sensitized Mice Model

Fungi are the eukaryotic spore-producing organisms found in various environments. Many fungal species and their spores can cause infections in humans. Exposure to the fungal spores may lead to allergic rhinitis and asthma in hypersensitive individuals. Aspergillus spores commonly reported in aerobiological studies worldwide including Pakistan. In the present study, the allergenic potential of Aspergillus niger spores was analyzed using a mice model. Balb/c mice were intranasally exposed to spores while control mice were unexposed. Allergy symptoms, differential leukocyte counts (DLC), and Interleukin-9 concentrations were examined in both the test and control groups. Our study revealed that the test mice showed allergy symptoms including puffiness of eyes, sneezing, itching, rubbing on the whole body, running eyes and nose, and decreased physical activity. DLC analysis of the test mice indicated positive allergy test. Results showed statistically significant increase in the eosinophils, basophils and neutrophils count (p<0.01) compared to the control mice. However, a statistically significant decrease was observed in the number of lymphocytes (p<0.01) while monocytes remained same. IL-9 concentration was analyzed in the serum of test and control mice using ELISA technique. It was observed that IL-9 concentration was significantly increased in the test mice serum p<0.001. These findings suggest that the spores of Aspergillus niger have significant potential to act as potent aeroallergen capable of eliciting strong allergic reaction. This research may contribute to understanding the pathogenesis of fungal spores at the molecular level, paving the way for the development of effective treatment options for allergies.