The continuous flow culture as an in vitro model in experimental mycology

We used the model of continuous flow culture (cfc) to study the growth of C andida species. This model allows special test conditions: a long generatio n time of 15-20 hs, controlled limitation of nitrogen sources and carbohydr ates, comparison of the growth under aerobic and anaerobic conditions simul taneously These conditions were used to study the effect of antimycotic dru gs, mainly during a long time of 7 to 10 days. Germ tube formation as a virulence factor was more abundant and faster in c fc of strains with a stronger adherence to buccal epithelium cells. Go-cult ivation of C. albicans and C. glabrata allowed conclusions for their coloni zation in vivo. A biofilm on the glass wall of the culture vessel led to my celium formation by C. albicans. Concomitantly the growth of C. glabrata wa s favoured. Growth of C, albicans in the gastrointestinal flora was reduced by masses of bacteria and their multiple metabolic activities. A remarkabl e growth of C. albicans was only to be seen if the ecosystem was destroyed e.g. by antibacterial antibiotics. The influence of fluconazole in a long-t erm follow up study under anaerobic conditions showed an inhibition of C. a lbicans in 99.9 %. This means fungicidal efficacy.