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Experimental Models for Fungal Keratitis: An Overview of Principles and Protocols
Micaela L Montgomery1, Kevin K Fuller1,2
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
Abstract:
Fungal keratitis is a potentially blinding infection of the cornea that afflicts diverse patient populations worldwide. The development of better treatment options requires a more thorough understanding of both microbial and host determinants of pathology, and a spectrum of experimental models have been developed toward this end. In vivo (animal) models most accurately capture complex pathological outcomes, but protocols may be challenging to implement and vary widely across research groups. In vitro models allow for the molecular dissection of specific host cell-fungal interactions, but they do so without the appropriate environmental/structural context; ex vivo (corneal explant) models provide the benefits of intact corneal tissue, but they do not provide certain pathological features, such as inflammation. In this review, we endeavor to outline the key features of these experimental models as well as describe key technical variations that could impact study design and outcomes.
Insights
Fungal keratitis research uses various models, including animal, cell culture, and corneal explants. Understanding these models is key to developing better treatments for this blinding eye infection.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fungal keratitis is a severe corneal infection with global impact.
- Effective treatment requires understanding host-pathogen interactions.
- Current research relies on diverse experimental models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and compare experimental models for fungal keratitis.
- To highlight technical variations influencing study outcomes.
- To aid researchers in selecting appropriate models.
Main Methods:
- Review of in vivo (animal), in vitro (cell culture), and ex vivo (corneal explant) models.
- Analysis of model advantages and limitations.
- Discussion of technical variations in model implementation.
Main Results:
- In vivo models offer high pathological relevance but can be complex.
- In vitro models allow molecular study but lack tissue context.
- Ex vivo models retain tissue integrity but may miss inflammation.
Conclusions:
- Each model offers unique insights into fungal keratitis.
- Careful consideration of model characteristics is crucial for research design.
- Optimizing model selection can advance treatment development.
