ABSTRACT

Animal models for cryptosporidiosis are required for the generation of oocysts, the exogenous infectious forms used for laboratory investigations, and models in which to perform such studies. Curiously, despite the availability of several sensitive models such as the INF- knockout mouse, most investigators use either the neonatal, or the immunosuppressed mouse. A review of the literature shows that most animal models are used for the evaluation of compounds for inhibitory activities against cryptosporidiosis. Although several sensitive rodent models have been developed, standardized, and optimized, the majority of investigators, presumably for reasons of availability and costs, continue to use either the neonatal mouse or the immunosuppressed adult mouse, which have major limitations. The ideal immunocompromised animal model should allow a rapid and consistent establishment of persistent infection in adult animals; require a low-to-moderate infectious dose; and generate a profound watery diarrhea, dehydration, malabsorption, weight loss, and emaciation.