Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 13, 2026
Trichuris muris Infection: A Model of Type 2 Immunity and Inflammation in the Gut
Published on: May 24, 2011
Virulence of Curvularia in a murine model
Katihuska Paredes1, Javier Capilla, Deanna A Sutton
1Unitat de Microbiologia, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, IISPV, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Spain.
Abstract:
We have evaluated the virulence of two clinically relevant species of Curvularia; Curvularia spicifera and C. hawaiiensis, using an experimental model of disseminated infection in immunocompromised mice. Several inocula were tested over a range 1 × 10(3) -1 × 10(6) colony-forming units/animal. Both species had a similar behaviour, producing a high mortality. Tissue burden and histopathology studies demonstrated that lung was the organ most affected.
Insights
This study assessed the virulence of Curvularia spicifera and Curvularia hawaiiensis in immunocompromised mice. Both fungal species caused high mortality, with the lungs being the most severely affected organ.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunocompromised Host Models
Background:
- Curvularia species are emerging fungal pathogens.
- Invasive fungal infections pose a significant threat, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
- Limited data exists on the comparative virulence of clinically relevant Curvularia species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate and compare the virulence of Curvularia spicifera and Curvularia hawaiiensis.
- To determine the pathological effects of these fungi in a disseminated infection model.
- To identify the primary target organ in a murine model of infection.
Main Methods:
- Experimental disseminated infection model in immunocompromised mice.
- Administration of varying inocula (1 x 10^3 - 1 x 10^6 CFU/animal) of C. spicifera and C. hawaiiensis.
- Assessment of mortality, tissue fungal burden, and histopathological changes.
Main Results:
- Both Curvularia spicifera and C. hawaiiensis exhibited high virulence.
- A dose-dependent increase in mortality was observed.
- The lungs were identified as the most significantly affected organ, showing extensive tissue damage and high fungal burden.
Conclusions:
- Curvularia spicifera and C. hawaiiensis are highly virulent fungal pathogens.
- The lung is a primary target organ for disseminated infections caused by these species.
- Further research is warranted to understand the mechanisms of virulence and develop effective therapeutic strategies.
