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Experimental cholera in germfree suckling mice
Infection and Immunity
|October 1, 1981
Summary
Germfree mice infected with Vibrio cholerae V86 El Tor Inaba developed experimental cholera. However, offspring from mothers colonized with the same strain were fully protected from oral challenge.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Gnotobiology
Background:
- Vibrio cholerae, specifically the El Tor Inaba biotype, is a significant human pathogen causing cholera.
- Germfree animal models are crucial for studying host-pathogen interactions and immune responses without confounding microbial factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the pathogenicity of Vibrio cholerae V86 El Tor Inaba in a susceptible host model.
- To evaluate the protective effect of maternal colonization with Vibrio cholerae against homologous challenge in offspring.
Main Methods:
- Induction of experimental cholera in germfree ICR suckling mice using Vibrio cholerae V86 El Tor Inaba.
- Colonization of gnotobiotic mothers with the same Vibrio cholerae strain.
- Oral challenge of suckling offspring with live Vibrio cholerae.
Main Results:
- Vibrio cholerae V86 El Tor Inaba successfully induced experimental cholera in germfree suckling mice.
- Offspring born to monoassociated mothers demonstrated complete protection against live oral homologous challenge.
Conclusions:
- Maternal colonization confers significant passive immunity against Vibrio cholerae infection in early life.
- This study highlights the potential of targeted microbial interventions for preventing infectious diseases in neonates.