The role of immunomodulatory oligonucleotides in prevention of OVA-induced Eustachian tube dysfunction

SummaryObjectiveTo evaluate the potential role of immunomodulatory oligonucleotides (IMO) in the prevention of OVA-induced Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) in a rat model.MethodsBrown–Norway rats were sensitized to ovalbumin (OVA) and randomized to receive pre-treatment with IMO or phosphate buffered saline (PBS). After systemic sensitization, subjects received a transtympanic OVA challenge followed by evaluation of the Eustachian tube's dynamic function.ResultsPre-treatment of OVA sensitized animals with IMO normalized passive opening and closing Eustachian tube pressures, improved active clearance of negative pressure in the middle ear, and resulted in reduced mean mucociliary transit times compared to untreated OVA-sensitized animals (P < 0.001).ConclusionThese data demonstrate that pre-treatment with IMO prevent OVA-induced ETD in the rat. IMO treatment in the future may offer considerable promise in the management of OME in children.