COLONIZATION OF LIVING SKIN EQUIVALENTS BY MALASSEZIA-FURFUR

Initial colonization events and yeast-hyphal transformation by Malasse zia fur;fur were observed using living skin equivalent (LSE) models fo r growth. Yeast cells were inoculated onto the LSEs which were incubat ed in CO2-independent media at 37 degrees C for variable lengths of ti me. Assessment of fungal growth and invasion was by light- and scannin g electron microscopy (SEM). Viability counts of M furfur were determi ned by a method of washing and serial dilution. Yeast cells had retain ed their viability and increased in number approximate to twofold over a 4-day period of incubation. Yeast-to-hyphal transition was not achi eved in this model. Random destruction of the uppermost layers of the stratum corneum was observed in the presence of M. furfur. LSEs theref ore appear to be a promising model for mechanisms of growth of cutaneo us organisms.