The intravenous challenge model of Candida albicans infection in mice is a well-established procedure that mirrors disseminated candidiasis in humans. In this model, in which the fungus is delivered into the bloodstream causing a systemic infection, the kidneys are the primary target organs. Mice develop renal failure and septic shock that recapitulates the progressive sepsis seen in humans during severe clinical cases. This model is used to study inflammation and the host immune response against fungal infection. This chapter describes the intravenous candidiasis infection protocol, detailing different steps from the preparation of the inoculum, injection of Candida, monitoring of animals, collection of tissue from infected mice, sample preparation and analysis of several parameters related to infection and the inflammatory response.
Keywords: Candida albicans; Candidiasis; Fungal infection; Inflammation; Mouse model; Sepsis.