In Vivo Skin Colonization and Decolonization Models for Candida auris

Abstract

Candida auris infections present a critical problem to the healthcare system in many parts of the world. This yeast clinically manifests as a disseminated candidiasis which can be life-threating for susceptible individuals, as well as cutaneous and wound infections. Moreover, C. auris can colonize the skin and act as a nidus of infection. Importantly, this emerging yeast unlike other Candida spp. has demonstrated multidrug resistance; thus its eradication can be challenging. Animal models are important to gain insight into the pathogenesis of this infection, as well as play a significant role in drug development. In this chapter, we describe two C. auris animal models: a cutaneous infection guinea pig model and a skin decolonization mouse model.

Keywords: Animal model; Candida auris; Disseminated candidiasis; Guinea pig model of cutaneous infection; Mouse models.