This program simulates a range of experiments designed to demonstrate
the action of inflammatory mediators and pharmacological agents
on the in vivo inflammatory response in the anaesthetised rabbit.
The program uses data obtained from actual experiments and is aimed
at undergraduate students on courses in which pharmacology is a
major component. It may be particularly useful for teaching students
either to support laboratory practicals or, in those departments
where lack of equipment and/or technical expertise precludes this,
as a student-centered alternative.
Introduction and Methods sections combine text and high-quality
colour graphics to describe the animal preparation, the methods
employed to measure oedema formation (extravascular accumulation
of 125I - albumin) and neutrophil accumulation, and to provide the
student with the essential background information required to understand
the how the inflammatory response is triggered, and the mechanisms
involved.
· The Experiments section allows the student to select,
from a menu, to study the effects of the following agents on oedema
formation (and where appropriate on neutrophil numbers) in normal
rabbits:
(1) a range of direct mediators of increased microvascular permeability
[histamine, bradykinin, platelet activating factor (PAF), Substance
P, leukotriene D4], either alone (dose-response relationships),
in the presence of a vasodilator (PGE2) or with receptor antagonists;
(2) a range of agents which cause inflammation principally via
neutrophil accumulation [complement Factor C5a, cytokines interleukins
IL-1 and IL-8, the bacterial peptide f-methyl-leucyl-phenylalanine
(FMLP), leukotriene B4, Tumour Necrosis Factor (TNFalpha)], either
alone (dose-response relationships) and in the presence of a vasodilator
(PGE2). The effects of neutrophil depletion and the importance of
adhesion molecules are also covered;
(3) non-steroidal (local and systemic effects) and steroidal anti-inflammatory
agents.
A section describing the results of selected experiments using
sensitized rabbits is also included and covers the IgG (Reverse
Passive Arthus response) and IgE response.
The results are presented in graphical form either as bar-charts
or line graphs. The program contains numerous self-assessment exercises
which demand interpretation of experimental data presented to them,
and an understanding of the underlying inflammatory mechanisms.
These student-centred activities make the program useful for self-directed
learning or, in the ideal situation, it would be incorporated into
a structured teaching programme and used with a teacher-designed
workbook.
Target audience: Undergraduate pharmacology, pharmacy, biomedical
science and medical students |