HLA-DQ8 transgenic mice lacking endogenous class II molecules respond to house dust allergens: Identification of antigenic epitopes

We have introduced HLA-DQ8 (HLADQB*0302 and HLA-DQA*0301) genes into Aβ⁰ knockout mice. Transgenic animals were immunized with a whole body extract of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p), one of the causative agents of house dust mite allergy. Transgenic mice expressing HLA-DQ8 genes elicited HLA-DQ8-restricted responses driven by CD4⁺ T cells. Synthetic overlapping peptides representing a major allergen of house dust mite (Der p 2) were synthesized and used as immunogens. HLA-DQ8⁺ mice responded to three peptides: 8 (residues 61-80), 11 (residues 91-110), and 13 (residues 111129). The mice produced IL-2, IL-4, and IL-6 response to Der p challenge, suggesting a mixed Th1/Th2 response. These mice represent a new model for studies of the immune basis of allergy.