Dr. Michelle Epstein’s article on animal models to study food allergies ranks in the top 10% of most-viewed Current Protocols papers published in 2023.

We are proud to share that Imptox scientist Michelle Epstein from the Medical University of Vienna, together with co-authors Sahar Kazemi and Ece Danisman, has authored one of the most-read papers published in Current Protocols in 2023.

The article, titled Animal Models for the Study of Food Allergies, offers a comprehensive overview of how experimental allergy models in mice are developed, applied, and interpreted. It has attracted strong attention within the research community, ranking among the top 10% of most-viewed papers published in 2023 - a clear recognition of its value and relevance.

The publication was previously featured in a news article on the Imptox website, where readers can find more details. The authors not only describe widely used models but also outline their limitations, knowledge gaps, and the importance of experimental design - including factors like genetics, allergen type, and environmental conditions. They also advocate for greater collaboration between in vivo, in vitro, and computational researchers to build more robust, standardised systems.

Published as part of Imptox-related research, the paper helps scientists select suitable animal models to explore food allergy mechanisms, assess potential therapies, or test safety concerns related to novel food compounds.

In the context of Imptox, these animal models are essential for investigating whether micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) might play a role in the rise of food allergies. “While human studies are ethically and practically challenging, our animal models provide valuable insights into how these particles interact with the immune system,” explains Dr. Epstein. The impact of her publication underscores just how essential these models are for identifying hidden health risks in our environment.

In a world of rising food allergies and increasing plastic exposure, this kind of foundational research is more important than ever.

Reference:

Kazemi, S., Danisman, E., & Epstein, M. M. (2023). Animal models for the study of food allergies. Current Protocols, 3, e685.