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A mouse model for postoperative fatal enteritis due to Staphylococcus infection
Y Nakamura1, Y Aramaki, T Kakiuchi
1Third Department of Surgery, Toho University School of Medicine, 2-17-6 Ohashi, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8515, Japan.
The Journal of Surgical Research
|February 22, 2001
Summary
Researchers developed a mouse model for fatal methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) intestinal infections. This model helps study MRSA infection progression and mortality factors in postoperative patients.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Postoperative intestinal infections with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) can be fatal.
- Establishing a reliable animal model is crucial for understanding MRSA infection mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create a mouse model for studying fatal MRSA intestinal infections.
- To investigate factors contributing to MRSA-induced enteritis and mortality.
Main Methods:
- Mice were immunosuppressed with cyclophosphamide and infected with MRSA via jejunal injection.
- Bacterial translocation, endotoxin levels, and macrophage activity were assessed.
- Macrophage depletion was induced using liposome-encapsulated dichloromethylene diphosphate.
Main Results:
- Jejunal MRSA injection induced fatal enteritis and diarrhea in immunosuppressed mice.
- MRSA translocation occurred in lymph nodes and liver, often with concurrent E. coli infection.
- Macrophage depletion exacerbated MRSA infection, even in non-immunosuppressed mice.
Conclusions:
- A viable mouse model for fatal MRSA intestinal infection was established.
- Early mortality appears linked to E. coli or endotoxin, while later mortality involves MRSA-specific factors.
- Phagocytic cells play a critical role in protection against MRSA infection.