Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 20, 2025
Visualization of Candida albicans in the Murine Gastrointestinal Tract Using Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization
Published on: November 5, 2019
Mouse Gastrointestinal Colonization Model for Candida auris
Stylianos C Simantirakis1, Donna M MacCallum2
1Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK.
Abstract:
Animal colonization and infection models are frequently used to investigate host-pathogen interactions and disease progression. Here, we describe an effective model to investigate the ability of the newly emerged fungal pathogen Candida auris to persistently colonize the gut of immunocompetent mice. In our model, mice are inoculated by gavage and are subsequently monitored for colonization by determining daily fungal stool burdens. At the end of the experiment, mice are culled, and their spleen, liver, kidneys, lungs, heart, and caecum harvested to determine the fungal burdens in order to investigate colonization and potentially dissemination of C. auris to other host organs.
Insights
This study presents a new mouse model for tracking persistent gut colonization by the fungus Candida auris. This model helps researchers understand how Candida auris spreads within the host.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Animal models are crucial for studying host-pathogen interactions and disease.
- Candida auris is an emerging fungal pathogen causing significant health concerns.
- Understanding Candida auris gut colonization is vital for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish and validate an effective mouse model for investigating persistent gut colonization by Candida auris.
- To assess the dissemination potential of Candida auris from the gut to other organs in immunocompetent mice.
Main Methods:
- Mice were orally inoculated with Candida auris via gavage.
- Fungal stool burdens were monitored daily to quantify gut colonization.
- Fungal burdens in spleen, liver, kidneys, lungs, heart, and caecum were determined post-mortem to assess dissemination.
Main Results:
- The developed model effectively demonstrated persistent gut colonization by Candida auris in mice.
- The study quantified fungal burdens in various organs, providing insights into potential dissemination.
Conclusions:
- This mouse model offers a valuable tool for studying Candida auris gut colonization and host-pathogen dynamics.
- Further research using this model can elucidate C. auris pathogenesis and inform therapeutic strategies.
