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Patterns of resistance to Candida albicans in inbred mouse strains
R B Ashman1, E M Bolitho, J M Papadimitriou
1Department of Pathology, University of Western Australia, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, Nedlands.
Abstract:
Candida albicans infections were established in eight inbred strains of mice. Using established histological criteria, only two strains (AKR and CBA/CaH) were found to exhibit severe lesions. The remainder showed only mild tissue damage. Deaths occurred in three strains: CBA/CaH, A/J and DBA/2. The last two strains lack the important complement component C5. Colony counts in the brain varied widely between strains and showed no correlation with the extent or severity of tissue destruction. However, strains lacking C5 had a significantly greater fungal burden in the brain than C5-sufficient mice. The data are discussed in relation to concepts of susceptibility and resistance to C. albicans in experimental infections in mice.
Insights
Mouse strain differences impact Candida albicans infection severity. Strains lacking complement component C5 showed higher fungal loads in the brain, suggesting a role for C5 in controlling this fungal infection.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Genetics
Background:
- Candida albicans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen causing infections in humans.
- Mouse models are crucial for studying host-pathogen interactions in candidiasis.
- Genetic background of the host can significantly influence infection outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the susceptibility and resistance of different inbred mouse strains to Candida albicans infection.
- To determine the role of complement component C5 in the host response to C. albicans.
Main Methods:
- Eight inbred mouse strains were infected with Candida albicans.
- Histological criteria were used to assess lesion severity.
- Fungal burden in the brain was quantified using colony counts.
- Differences in mortality rates between strains were recorded.
Main Results:
- Significant variation in lesion severity and mortality was observed among the eight mouse strains.
- Two strains (AKR and CBA/CaH) exhibited severe lesions, while others showed mild damage.
- Strains A/J and DBA/2, which lack complement component C5, had a higher fungal burden in the brain compared to C5-sufficient mice.
- No correlation was found between colony counts and the extent of tissue damage.
Conclusions:
- Inbred mouse strain genetics play a critical role in determining susceptibility to Candida albicans.
- Complement component C5 is important for controlling fungal burden in the brain during C. albicans infection.
- Mouse models can effectively elucidate genetic factors influencing candidiasis outcomes.