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Mouse Models of Epididymitis Induced by Pathogen-Associated Molecular Patterns
Alexandre D Andrade1, André L Filadelpho2, Maria Christina W Avellar3
1Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University; alexandre.andrade@unesp.br.
Journal of Visualized Experiments : Jove
|December 29, 2025
Summary
New mouse models help study epididymitis, a common cause of male infertility. These models investigate how bacterial components trigger inflammation in the epididymis, impacting sperm health.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Reproductive Medicine
- Microbiology
Background:
- Epididymitis is a common urologic condition linked to male infertility.
- Bacterial infections are the primary cause, but underlying mechanisms are unclear.
- Rodent models are crucial for studying epididymal responses to infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and describe surgical methods for inducing epididymitis in mice.
- To investigate the epididymal inflammatory response to bacterial components.
- To provide tools for understanding epididymitis and its impact on fertility.
Main Methods:
- Surgical induction of epididymitis in mice via injection of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs).
- Two distinct approaches target the interstitial compartment (initial segment) or luminal compartment (vas deferens).
- Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and lipoteichoic acid (LTA) used to mimic Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial infections.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated successful induction of epididymitis in mice using PAMPs.
- Observed differential inflammatory responses in proximal and distal epididymal regions.
- Inflammation severity correlated with impaired sperm parameters.
Conclusions:
- Developed novel mouse models for studying epididymitis pathophysiology.
- These models allow regional investigation of epididymal inflammation.
- Facilitates research into therapeutic strategies to preserve male fertility.
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