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Relevant Animal Models in Dermatophyte Research
Ludivine Cambier1, Marie-Pierre Heinen1, Bernard Mignon2
1Veterinary Mycology, Fundamental and Applied Research for Animals & Health (FARAH), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Quartier Vallée 2, Avenue de Cureghem 6, B-43a, 4000, Liège, Belgium.
Abstract:
Dermatophytoses are common superficial fungal infections affecting both humans and animals. They are provoked by filamentous fungi called dermatophytes specialized in the degradation of keratinized structures, which allows them to induce skin, hair and nail infections. Despite their high incidence, little investigation has been performed for the understanding of these infections compared to fungal opportunistic infections and most of the studies were based on in vitro experiments. The development of animal models for dermatophyte research is required to evaluate new treatments against dermatophytoses or to increase knowledge about fungal pathogenicity factors or host immune response mechanisms. The guinea pig has been the most often used animal model to evaluate efficacy of antifungal compounds against dermatophytes, while mouse models were preferred to study the immune response generated during the disease. Here, we review the relevant animal models that were developed for dermatophyte research and we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the selected species, especially guinea pig and mouse.
Insights
Animal models are crucial for studying dermatophytoses, common fungal skin infections. This review highlights guinea pig and mouse models for evaluating antifungal treatments and understanding host immune responses to dermatophyte infections.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Animal Models in Research
Background:
- Dermatophytoses are superficial fungal infections caused by dermatophytes, affecting keratinized tissues like skin, hair, and nails.
- Research on dermatophytoses lags behind opportunistic fungal infections, with limited in vivo studies.
- Effective animal models are needed to advance understanding of dermatophyte pathogenicity and host immune responses, and to test new antifungal therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and discuss the utility of various animal models for dermatophyte research.
- To compare the advantages and disadvantages of commonly used animal models, specifically guinea pigs and mice.
- To inform the selection of appropriate models for studying dermatophytosis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of published studies utilizing animal models for dermatophyte research.
- Comparative analysis of animal models based on their suitability for evaluating antifungal efficacy and immune response.
- Focus on guinea pig and mouse models as primary examples.
Main Results:
- Guinea pig models are frequently employed for assessing the efficacy of antifungal drugs against dermatophytes.
- Mouse models are preferred for investigating the immune mechanisms underlying dermatophyte infections.
- Both species offer distinct advantages for different research objectives in dermatophytosis.
Conclusions:
- Appropriate animal models are essential for progress in dermatophytosis research.
- Guinea pigs and mice serve as valuable, albeit different, models for studying fungal skin infections.
- Further development and application of these models will enhance our understanding and treatment of dermatophytoses.
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