Mastomys natalensis as alternative model in studies on experimental schistosomiasis mansoni

Abstract

It was studied aspects of experimental infection and immunity in a rodent Mastomys natalensis infected by the LE strain of Schistosoma mansoni. The results were compared with those from albino mouse, that is an excellent animal for experimental schistosomiasis. The studied parameters showed similar results to those found in the mouse. M. natalensis is highly susceptible to S. mansoni infection, being very useful for biological studies and/or immunity observations about this kind of infection. In addition, the high reproduction rate in captivity, easy handling and unexpensive maintenance in laboratory, suggest that M. natalensis could be used as an alternative experimental model in schistosomiasis mansoni studies.