Transient infection of the zebrafish notochord with E. coli induces chronic inflammation.

ABSTRACT: Zebrafish embryos and larvae are now well-established models in which to study infectious diseases. Infections with non-pathogenic Gram-negative Escherichia coli induce a strong and reproducible inflammatory response. Here, we study the cellular response of zebrafish larvae when E. coli bacteria are injected into the notochord and describe the effects. First, we provide direct evidence that the notochord is a unique organ that is inaccessible to leukocytes (macrophages and neutrophils) during the early stages of inflammation. Second, we show that notochord infection induces a host response that is characterised by rapid clearance of the bacteria, strong leukocyte recruitment around the notochord and prolonged inflammation that lasts several days after bacteria clearance. During this inflam

SUBMITTER: Nguyen-Chi M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4073276 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature