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Can the association of athymic mice (Han:NMRI-nu) with Staphylococcus sciuri prevent infection with Staphylococcus
Abstract:
An attempt was made to prevent the introduction of Staphylococcus aureus into a newly established colony of Han:NMRI-nu mice by means of preassociation with the rodent-specific Staphylococcus sciuri. Despite the successful colonization of the mice with S. sciuri the establishment of S. aureus into the colony was not impeded, and abscesses were observed with an increasing frequency until the end of the study. Random samples revealed the phage pattern 3A/3C/55/71 or very similar ones. A caretaker was identified as a possible vector of transmission, since he was found to be colonized with this S. aureus phage type previous to the outbreak. Finally, the later occurrence of Citrobacter freundii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa serovar P10 in the colony led to the decision to give it up after 21 months of existence.
Insights
Pre-colonizing mice with Staphylococcus sciuri did not prevent Staphylococcus aureus infections. The study found S. aureus outbreaks occurred, leading to the colony
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Animal Models
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- Preventing pathogen introduction into research animal colonies is crucial for study integrity.
- Staphylococcus aureus is a common cause of infections in both animals and humans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if pre-colonization with a rodent-specific Staphylococcus species (S. sciuri) could prevent Staphylococcus aureus colonization in a new mouse colony.
- To identify the source and transmission routes of S. aureus if introduced.
Main Methods:
- Han:NMRI-nu mice were colonized with Staphylococcus sciuri.
- The colony was monitored for the presence of Staphylococcus aureus.
- Bacterial isolates were characterized using phage typing.
- Environmental and personnel screening was conducted to identify potential vectors.
Main Results:
- Successful colonization with S. sciuri did not prevent S. aureus establishment.
- Abscesses caused by S. aureus (phage type 3A/3C/55/71) increased in frequency.
- A caretaker colonized with the same S. aureus phage type was identified as a likely transmission source.
- Subsequent infections with Citrobacter freundii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa led to colony termination.
Conclusions:
- Pre-colonization with S. sciuri is ineffective in preventing S. aureus colonization in mice.
- Human carriers can be significant vectors for pathogen transmission into animal facilities.
- Effective biosecurity measures are essential to maintain pathogen-free animal colonies.