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Entamoeba histolytica in inbred mice: evidence of liver involvement

D G Owen1

  • 1MRC Experimental Embryology, Carshalton, Surrey, UK.

Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|January 1, 1987
PubMed

Insights

Certain mouse strains showed susceptibility to Entamoeba histolytica liver invasion. Researchers identified specific genetic factors influencing susceptibility and observed amoeba presence in infected livers across multiple strains.

Area of Science:

  • Parasitology
  • Immunology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Entamoeba histolytica is a protozoan parasite that causes amoebiasis, a significant global health concern.
  • Liver invasion by Entamoeba histolytica can lead to severe complications and mortality.
  • Previous observations suggested variability in host susceptibility among different mouse strains.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the susceptibility of various mouse strains to Entamoeba histolytica-induced liver invasion.
  • To identify potential genetic or immunological factors influencing host response to amoebic infection.

Main Methods:

  • Intra-intestinal infection of multiple mouse strains (CBA/HN, CBA/HN nu/nu, CBA/HN nu/+, CBA/HN Dh/+, CBA/HN +/+, C3H/HeJ Lps/Lps, AB/H) with Entamoeba histolytica strain SAW 408 (zymodeme II).
  • Monitoring of mortality and acute lesions within the first 14 days post-infection.
  • Necropsy and examination of livers at 4 and 6 months post-infection for amoeba presence and lesions.

Main Results:

  • A proportion of mice from all tested groups died within 14 days, exhibiting acute lesions.
  • CBA/HN, CBA/HN Dh/+, and CBA/HN +/+ mice demonstrated amoeba presence in their livers at 4 and 6 months.
  • While amoeba was detected, extensive, typical amoebic liver lesions were observed in only two mice.

Conclusions:

  • Mouse strain influences susceptibility to Entamoeba histolytica liver invasion.
  • Specific genetic backgrounds (CBA/HN, CBA/HN Dh/+, CBA/HN +/+) are associated with amoeba presence in the liver post-infection.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms behind varying lesion development despite amoeba presence.

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