Abstract
The host–pathogen interaction during meningitis can be investigated with blood-cerebrospinal-fluid-barrier (BCSFB) cell culture models. They are commonly handled under atmospheric oxygen conditions (19–21% O2), although the physiological oxygen conditions are significantly lower in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) (7–8% O2). We aimed to characterize oxygen levels in a Streptococcus (S.) suis-infected BCSFB model with transmigrating neutrophils. A BCSFB model with human choroid plexus epithelial cells growing on transwell-filters was used. The upper “blood”-compartment was infected and blood-derived neutrophils were added. S. suis and neutrophils transmigrated through the BCSFB into the “CSF”-compartment. Here, oxygen and pH values were determined with the non-invasive SensorDish® reader. Slight orbital shaking improved the luminescence-based measurement technique for detecting free oxygen. In the non-infected BCSFB model, an oxygen value of 7% O2 was determined. However, with S. suis and transmigrating neutrophils, the oxygen value significantly decreased to 2% O2. The pH level decreased slightly in all groups. In conclusion, we characterized oxygen levels in the BCSFB model and demonstrated the oxygen consumption by cells and bacteria. Oxygen values in the non-infected BCSFB model are comparable to in vivo values determined in pigs in the CSF. Infection and transmigrating neutrophils decrease the oxygen value to lower values.
Highlights
IntroductionDue to the global increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria and thereby associated complications in treating certain bacterial infections [1,2], a need to identify new treatment opportunities exists
Introduction published maps and institutional affilDue to the global increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria and thereby associated complications in treating certain bacterial infections [1,2], a need to identify new treatment opportunities exists
The optimal gas exchange in the medium with the presence of bacteria was determined under non-shaking compared to shaking conditions, since the previously described system had only been established under non-shaking conditions
Summary
Due to the global increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria and thereby associated complications in treating certain bacterial infections [1,2], a need to identify new treatment opportunities exists. Research to understand the host–pathogen interaction is important. Infection studies with cell culture models can reflect the (patho-) physiological situation [3]. A better understanding of patho-mechanisms may lead to identifying potential ways for alternative therapies. The effect and efficiency of such new therapies can be analyzed in physiologically relevant cell culture systems. Suitable and valid physiologically relevant replacement methods are needed
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