Increased Virulence of an Epidemic Strain of Mycobacterium massiliense in Mice
Author Information
Author(s): Shang Shaobin, Gibbs Sara, Henao-Tamayo Marcela, Shanley Crystal A., McDonnell Gerald, Duarte Rafael Silva, Ordway Diane J., Jackson Mary
Primary Institution: Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University
Hypothesis
The study aims to compare the virulence and immune response induced by a glutaraldehyde-susceptible reference strain of Mycobacterium massiliense and an epidemic strain from Brazil.
Conclusion
The Brazilian epidemic isolate of Mycobacterium massiliense shows increased virulence and pathogenicity compared to the reference strain.
Supporting Evidence
- The epidemic strain replicated more efficiently in macrophages than the reference strain.
- Infected mice showed more severe lung infections with the epidemic strain.
- Regulatory T cells were more prevalent in mice infected with the epidemic strain.
Takeaway
Some germs can make you sick more than others, and this study found that a specific strain of a germ called Mycobacterium massiliense is really good at making mice sick.
Methodology
The study compared the replication and survival of two Mycobacterium massiliense strains in macrophages and assessed immune responses in mice.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the specific strains chosen and the controlled laboratory conditions.
Limitations
The study primarily used a mouse model, which may not fully replicate human responses to infection.
Participant Demographics
Female GKO mice, aged 6 to 8 weeks.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website