Virology & Mycology
Open Access

Embryonated egg as an alternative model for studying the virulence potential of Cryptococcus neoformans

International Conference on Mycology & Mushrooms

September 12-14, 2016 San Antonio, USA

Nnadi Nnaemeka Emmanuel, Dachi Locrit, Ayanbimpe Grace Mebi and Enweani Ifeoma

Plateau State University, Nigeria
University of Jos, Nigeria
Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nigeria

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Virol Mycol

Abstract :

The use of embryonated egg as an alternative in the study of the pathogenesis of fungi is evolving, although murine models are â�?�?gold standardâ�? however, these models are used to screen determinants of virulence among fungi species. This study was aimed at the study of the virulence potential of clinical (WM626) and environmental (EN028) isolate of Cryptococcus neoformans both belong to molecular types VNII in chick embryo infected via Chorio-allantioc membrane (CAM). At a concentration of 108 cfu per ml, the two strains had varying virulence potential on the embryo. Environmental strain EN028 achieved 100% mortality on day 5 of experiment whereas strain WM 626 did not cause 100% mortality. Histopathology of CAM from both strains revealed massive disruption of CAM cells in EN028 when compared to WM626. Also with decrease in the concentration of infectious does, infection without mortality was observed. Our study suggests that embryonated eggs is a useful alternative tool to pre-screen Cryptococcus neoformans strains to select strains for subsequent testing in murine models.

Biography :

Email: eennadi@gmail.com