Animal Models of Mycobacteria Infection

Abstract

This manuscript describes the infection of mice and guinea pigs with mycobacteria via various routes, as well as necropsy methods for the determination of mycobacterial loads within target organs. Additionally, methods for cultivating mycobacteria and preparing stocks are described. The protocols outlined are primarily used for M. tuberculosis, but can also be used for the study of other non-tuberculosis mycobacterial species. A wide variety of animal models have been used to test new vaccines, drugs, and the impact of cigarette exposure. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Aerosol infection of mice with mycobacteria

Basic Protocol 2: Aerosol infection of guinea pig with mycobacteria using a Madison chamber

Alternate Protocol 1: Cigarette exposure prior to infection of mice with mycobacteria

Alternate Protocol 2: Intravenous infection of mice with mycobacteria

Basic Protocol 3: Necropsy methods for animals experimentally infected with mycobacteria

Basic Protocol 4: Following the course of infection

Basic Protocol 5: Measuring the animal immune response to infection

Support Protocol: Cultivation of mycobacteria for use in animal experiments