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Published on: May 24, 2011
Infectivity and pathological changes in murine clonorchiasis: comparison in immunocompetent and immunodeficient mice
1Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Suwon, Korea.
The Journal of Veterinary Medical Science
|May 11, 2001
Summary
Infection with Clonorchis sinensis metacercariae showed high infectivity across mouse strains. FVB/NJ mice exhibited greater worm recovery and severe liver pathology, suggesting their utility in studying human clonorchiasis mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Immunology
- Hepatology
Background:
- Clonorchiasis complications include liver inflammation, biliary changes, fibrosis, and tumor development.
- Understanding host-parasite interactions is crucial for managing Clonorchis sinensis infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the infectivity and histopathologic outcomes of Clonorchis sinensis infection in different mouse strains.
- To evaluate the role of host immunity in the pathogenesis of clonorchiasis.
Main Methods:
- Infection of immunocompetent (FVB/NJ, BALB/cA) and immunodeficient (SCID, athymic nude) mice with Clonorchis sinensis metacercariae.
- Assessment of worm development, recovery rates, and liver histopathology at various time points post-infection.
Main Results:
- Clonorchis sinensis was highly infective in all mouse strains, with significant variations in worm development and liver pathology.
- FVB/NJ mice demonstrated superior worm recovery and pronounced hepatic lesions, including cystic changes, fibrosis, and biliary hyperplasia.
- Immunodeficient mice showed limited inflammatory responses and minimal parasite development, with no adult worms or egg production.
Conclusions:
- Host immune status significantly influences the course of Clonorchis sinensis infection and associated liver pathology.
- Inflammatory cell infiltration, particularly eosinophils and plasma cells, appears critical in initiating liver fibrosis and cystic changes.
- The FVB/NJ mouse model offers a valuable platform for investigating the pathogenesis of human clonorchiasis.
