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Pathogenicity of yeasts and algae isolated from bovine mastitis secretions in a murine model
1Department of Pharmacology and Pathobiology, Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
Abstract:
The pathogenicity of strains of yeasts and algae isolated from bovine mastitis secretions was evaluated in immunosuppressed mice. Strains of Candida tropicalis (n = 3) were the most pathogenic, but all strains of Geotrichum capitatum (n = 5) and the colourless alga Prototheca zopfii (n = 5) were also lethal to mice at the highest dose of 1 x 10(7) CFU per mouse. Reisolation of the inoculated micro-organisms and the occurrence of histopathological lesions within organs of mice challenged with 1 x 10(3) to 1 x 10(7) CFU per animal revealed strains of C. krusei (n = 17), C. kefyr (n = 6) and C. rugosa (n = 6) to have a moderate pathogenicity, whereas strains of C. valida (n = 1) and C. catenulata (n = 2) were weakly pathogenic and non-pathogenic respectively.
Insights
This study assessed the pathogenicity of yeasts and algae from bovine mastitis in mice. Candida tropicalis, Geotrichum capitatum, and Prototheca zopfii showed high pathogenicity, while other Candida species exhibited moderate to low virulence.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Bovine mastitis is a significant concern in dairy farming.
- Identifying the causative agents and their virulence is crucial for effective treatment and control.
- Yeasts and algae can be opportunistic pathogens in bovine infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the pathogenicity of yeast and algae strains isolated from bovine mastitis.
- To determine the relative virulence of different species and strains in an animal model.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of yeast and algae from bovine mastitis secretions.
- Inoculation of immunosuppressed mice with varying concentrations of microbial strains.
- Assessment of pathogenicity through mortality rates and histopathological examination.
- Reisolation of inoculated microorganisms to confirm infection.
Main Results:
- Candida tropicalis, Geotrichum capitatum, and Prototheca zopfii were highly pathogenic, causing mortality at high doses.
- Candida krusei, Candida kefyr, and Candida rugosa demonstrated moderate pathogenicity.
- Candida valida and Candida catenulata exhibited weak to no pathogenicity.
Conclusions:
- The study identifies specific yeast and algae species associated with bovine mastitis and their varying degrees of virulence.
- Findings provide insights into the pathogenic potential of these microorganisms in a mammalian host.
- Results can inform strategies for managing mastitis caused by these agents.