[Characterization of the interaction between Candida albicans and host cells: In vitro model using reconstituted human skin and mucosa].

Basic research on the biology and immunology of microbial infection requires appropriate model systems. Currently most such studies involve animal studies which are a focus of ethical controversy. Possible alternatives, especially for localized infections, are provided by models using in vitro reconstituted human epithelium or epidermis (RHE). In recent years, these model systems have been successfully established to evaluate the effectiveness of topical anti-infectives, to characterize the role of fungal virulence factors, and to study the immune responses during localized Candida albicans infections. Most recently, these models have been supplemented with immune cells such as lymphocytes, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, mast cells or dendritic cells, to study their role during the course of infection and to characterize the interaction between the skin barrier and accessory immune cells. Although the most experience is with Candida albicans RHE infections, such model systems can also be used to study infections with other fungi or bacteria.