Animal Models for Studying Trypanosoma cruzi Congenital Transmission and Associated Pathogenesis: Special Emphasis on Guinea Pig Model

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi) is the causative agent of Chagas disease (CD) that remains endemic in the American continent. Although vectorial transmission of T. cruzi is recognized as the main mode of infection, congenital transmission of T. cruzi to newborns by their infected mothers is well documented. In this article, we briefly discuss the current knowledge of congenital transmission of T. cruzi in humans and compare the placental architecture of humans with the experimental models that have been used to study the effects of maternal T. cruzi infection on the newborns. We point out the similarities and specific characteristics of the placentas to inform the usefulness and limitations of the experimental models in evaluating the pathogenesis of congenital transmission of T. cruzi or examining the efficacy of diagnostic tests or therapies to prevent congenital CD. We present more detailed information on the guinea pig model of T. cruzi congenital transmission.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationMethods in Molecular Biology
PublisherHumana Press Inc.
Pages427-442
Number of pages16
DOIs
StatePublished - 2026

Publication series

NameMethods in Molecular Biology
Volume2982
ISSN (Print)1064-3745
ISSN (Electronic)1940-6029

Keywords

  • Chagas disease
  • Congenital transmission
  • Dogs
  • Guinea pig models
  • Placenta
  • Rodents
  • Trypanosoma cruzi

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Animal Models for Studying Trypanosoma cruzi Congenital Transmission and Associated Pathogenesis: Special Emphasis on Guinea Pig Model'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this