Generation of a central nervous system catheter-associated infection in mice with Staphylococcus epidermidis

Methods Mol Biol. 2014:1106:193-8. doi: 10.1007/978-1-62703-736-5_18.

Abstract

Animal models are valuable tools for investigating the in vivo pathogenesis of Staphylococcus epidermidis infections. Here, we present the procedure for generating a central nervous system catheter-associated infection in a mouse, to model the central nervous system shunt infections that frequently complicate the treatment of hydrocephalus in humans. This model uses stereotactic guidance to place silicone catheters, pre-coated with S. epidermidis, into the lateral ventricles of mice. This results in a catheter-associated infection in the brain, with concomitant illness and inflammation. This animal model is a valuable tool for evaluating the pathogenesis of bacterial infection in the central nervous system, the immune response to these infections and potential treatment options.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biofilms*
  • Catheter-Related Infections / microbiology*
  • Catheters, Indwelling / microbiology
  • Central Nervous System Infections / microbiology
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Shunts
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Humans
  • Hydrocephalus / therapy
  • Lateral Ventricles / microbiology
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Staphylococcal Infections / microbiology*
  • Staphylococcus epidermidis / physiology*