In Vitro Infection Model Using A6 Cells Sets the Stage for Host-Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans Exploration.

ABSTRACT: The chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal) poses a significant threat to amphibian biodiversity, driving severe declines in salamander populations in Europe. While understanding the host-pathogen interaction may yield novel avenues for disease mitigation, effective in vitro models are currently lacking. We here develop a cell-culture-based model using A6 cells to reproduce the complete life cycle of Bsal in vitro, encompassing key stages such as β-galactose-associated cell attachment, active host cell penetration, intracellular maturation, host cell death, and Bsal release. Using imaging techniques, we provide evidence that Bsal penetrates A6 cells through a mechanism independent of conventional host actin dynamics. Our comparative analysis reveals that Bsal infecti

SUBMITTER: Verbrugghe E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11856035 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature