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Updated: May 29, 2026
A Catheter-Related Candida albicans Infection Model in Mouse
Published on: March 22, 2024
A rabbit model for evaluation of catheter-associated fungal biofilms
Jyotsna Chandra1, Lisa Long, Mahmoud A Ghannoum
1Center for Medical Mycology and Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Case Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
Abstract:
Most cases of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) involve colonization of micro-organisms on catheter surfaces where they eventually become embedded in a biofilm. Fungal biofilm formation is studied using a number of techniques, involving the use of a wide variety of substrates and growth conditions. In vitro techniques involving use of confocal scanning laser/scanning electron microscopy, metabolic activity assay, dry weight measurements and antifungal susceptibility assays are increasingly used by investigators to quantify and evaluate biofilm morphology. However, there are not many in vivo models used to validate biofilm-associated infections. In this protocol, we describe clinically relevant rabbit model of C. albicans biofilm-associated catheter infection to evaluate the morphology, topography, and architecture of fungal biofilms. The methods described here can be completed in a typical laboratory setting. Evaluation of the formation of fungal biofilms on catheters in vivo, their analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and quantitative catheter culture (QCC) and treatment of biofilms using antimicrobial lock therapy can be completed using the described methods in ~20-25 days. This model has utility in evaluating the efficacy of lock solutions. In addition, it is a useful approach for characterizing/comparing the formation of biofilms by wild type and isogenic mutants including clinical isolates in vivo. This model can also be used for testing different biomaterials.
Insights
This study presents a rabbit model for studying fungal biofilm infections on catheters. This model helps evaluate antifungal treatments and compare different fungal strains in vivo.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) often stem from microbial biofilms on catheter surfaces.
- Existing in vitro methods for studying fungal biofilms lack comprehensive in vivo validation.
- There is a need for robust in vivo models to accurately assess biofilm-associated infections and treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a clinically relevant rabbit model for Candida albicans biofilm-associated catheter infections.
- To provide a reproducible method for evaluating fungal biofilm morphology, topography, and architecture in vivo.
- To establish a model for testing antifungal lock therapies and comparing fungal strains or biomaterials.
Main Methods:
- Development and utilization of a rabbit model for catheter implantation and C. albicans inoculation.
- In vivo biofilm formation assessment on catheter surfaces.
- Analysis of biofilm morphology using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
- Quantification of fungal burden via quantitative catheter culture (QCC).
Main Results:
- The rabbit model successfully established C. albicans biofilms on implanted catheters.
- SEM and QCC provided detailed insights into biofilm architecture and fungal load in vivo.
- The model allowed for the evaluation of antimicrobial lock therapy efficacy against catheter biofilms.
Conclusions:
- The described rabbit model offers a valuable in vivo platform for studying fungal biofilm-associated catheter infections.
- This model facilitates the assessment of antifungal efficacy, comparison of fungal strains, and testing of novel biomaterials.
- The protocol is adaptable for typical laboratory settings and can be completed within approximately 20-25 days.
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