Animal Models of Endocarditis

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Animal Models of Endocarditis

Animal models of infective endocarditis are essential preclinical systems for studying the pathogenesis of valvular infections and evaluating novel antimicrobial or prophylactic strategies. These models are designed to replicate the triad of host valve damage, bacteremia, and vegetation formation, which are hallmarks of human endocarditis.

The most widely used models include the rabbit model and the rat model. These models reproduce essential pathological findings of human endocarditis: large, friable vegetations adherent to valve leaflets, neutrophil-rich inflammatory infiltrates, valvular perforation or regurgitation, and elevated serum markers of infection and inflammation.

Applications of Animal Models of Endocarditis

In preclinical cardiovascular research, animal models of endocarditis are extensively used to evaluate the in vivo efficacy of antibiotics, alone or in combination, against drug-resistant strains. They also enable PK/PD studies, assessment of biofilm disruption agents, and testing of prophylactic regimens prior to invasive procedures. Furthermore, these models help elucidate host-pathogen interactions, including valve adherence mechanisms and immune evasion strategies.