Related Experiment Videos
[Experimental meningoencephalitis by Naegleria fowleri in mice]
1Department of Parasitology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Korea.
Abstract:
Experimentally, primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is induced by Naegleria fowleri in mouse and development of PAM may be influenced by the strain, weight and sex of mouse, and inoculum size of N. fowleri trophozoite. In this paper, the effect of these factors on PAM development of mouse was studied. N. fowleri trophozoites, strain 0359, were introduced into mouse intranasally under secobarbital anesthesia (0.05 mg/g). PAM was developed more frequently in BALB/c mouse than ICR mouse. The survival time of mouse with PAM was influenced by the weight, that is, it was shorter in 15 g mouse than in the heavier groups. No difference was observed on PAM development according to sex. In case of inoculated amoeba, PAM incidence of 0.5 x 10(4) was markedly decreased.
Insights
Naegleria fowleri causes primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) in mice. BALB/c mice and lighter weights showed increased PAM susceptibility, while sex did not influence development.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Immunology
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) is a severe, often fatal, central nervous system infection.
- Naegleria fowleri is the causative agent of PAM.
- Mouse models are crucial for understanding PAM pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of host factors and pathogen inoculum on the development of primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) in a mouse model.
- To identify specific mouse strains and characteristics that affect susceptibility to Naegleria fowleri infection.
Main Methods:
- Naegleria fowleri (strain 0359) trophozoites were administered intranasally to mice under anesthesia.
- BALB/c and ICR mouse strains were used, with varying weights and sexes.
- Inoculum sizes of N. fowleri trophozoites were varied to assess impact on PAM incidence.
Main Results:
- PAM developed more frequently in BALB/c mice compared to ICR mice.
- Mouse survival time with PAM was inversely correlated with body weight; lighter mice had shorter survival.
- No significant difference in PAM development was observed between male and female mice.
- A reduced inoculum size (0.5 x 10^4 trophozoites) markedly decreased PAM incidence.
Conclusions:
- Host factors such as mouse strain and weight significantly influence Naegleria fowleri-induced PAM.
- Inoculum size is a critical determinant of PAM development and severity.
- These findings provide valuable insights for experimental PAM research and potential therapeutic strategies.