Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 16, 2026
Th17 Inflammation Model of Oropharyngeal Candidiasis in Immunodeficient Mice
Published on: February 18, 2015
A Mouse Model of Candidiasis
Pilar Fajardo1, Ana Cuenda1, Juan José Sanz-Ezquerro2
1Department of Immunology and Oncology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología/CSIC, Madrid, Spain.
Abstract:
The intravenous challenge model of Candida albicans infection in mice is a well-established procedure that mirrors disseminated candidiasis in humans. In this model, in which the fungus is delivered into the bloodstream causing a systemic infection, the kidneys are the primary target organs. Mice develop renal failure and septic shock that recapitulates the progressive sepsis seen in humans during severe clinical cases. This model is used to study inflammation and the host immune response against fungal infection. This chapter describes the intravenous candidiasis infection protocol, detailing different steps from the preparation of the inoculum, injection of Candida, monitoring of animals, collection of tissue from infected mice, sample preparation and analysis of several parameters related to infection and the inflammatory response.
Insights
This study details a mouse model for disseminated candidiasis, a systemic fungal infection. The protocol helps research inflammation and immune responses in severe Candida albicans infections.
Area of Science:
- * Immunology
- * Mycology
- * Infectious Diseases
Background:
- * Disseminated candidiasis, a severe systemic fungal infection, poses significant health risks.
- * The intravenous challenge model in mice effectively mimics human disseminated candidiasis, with kidneys as primary target organs.
- * This model recapitulates renal failure and septic shock, mirroring severe clinical cases in humans.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To describe a standardized intravenous challenge protocol for Candida albicans infection in mice.
- * To detail the methodology for studying inflammation and host immune responses in disseminated fungal infections.
- * To provide a comprehensive guide for researchers investigating systemic candidiasis.
Main Methods:
- * Preparation of Candida albicans inoculum for intravenous injection.
- * Monitoring of animal health and disease progression post-infection.
- * Collection and preparation of tissue samples for analysis.
- * Analysis of infection parameters and host inflammatory markers.
Main Results:
- * The intravenous model reliably induces systemic Candida albicans infection in mice.
- * Kidney damage and indicators of septic shock are observed, consistent with human disease.
- * The model allows for detailed study of host-pathogen interactions and inflammatory pathways.
Conclusions:
- * The described intravenous candidiasis model in mice is a valuable tool for studying disseminated fungal infections.
- * This protocol facilitates research into host immune responses and therapeutic strategies for candidiasis.
- * The model's ability to replicate human disease progression aids in understanding severe sepsis and inflammation.
