Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 27, 2026
Chronic Salmonella Infection Induced Intestinal Fibrosis
Published on: September 22, 2019
New in vitro colonic fermentation model for Salmonella infection in the child gut
Gwenaëlle Le Blay1, Julia Rytka, Annina Zihler
1Laboratory of Food Biotechnology, Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, Zurich, Switzerland.
Abstract:
In this study, a new in vitro continuous colonic fermentation model of Salmonella infection with immobilized child fecal microbiota and Salmonella serovar Typhimurium was developed for the proximal colon. This model was then used to test the effects of two amoxicillin concentrations (90 and 180 mg day(-1)) on the microbial composition and metabolism of the gut microbiota and on Salmonella serovar Typhimurium during a 43-day fermentation. Addition of gel beads (2%, v/v) colonized with Salmonella serovar Typhimurium in the reactor resulted in a high and stable Salmonella concentration (log 7.5 cell number mL(-1)) in effluent samples, and a concomitant increase of Enterobacteriaeceae, Clostridium coccoides-Eubacterium rectale and Atopobium populations and a decrease of bifidobacteria. During amoxicillin treatments, Salmonella concentrations decreased while microbial balance and activity were modified in agreement with in vivo data, with a marked decrease in C. coccoides-E. rectale and an increase in Enterobacteriaceae. After interruption of antibiotic addition, Salmonella concentration again increased to reach values comparable to that measured before antibiotic treatments, showing that our model can be used to simulate Salmonella shedding in children as observed in vivo. This in vitro model could be a useful tool for developing and testing new antimicrobials against enteropathogens.
Insights
A new in vitro model simulates Salmonella infection in the child gut. Amoxicillin reduced Salmonella, but the pathogen returned after treatment, mimicking in vivo results and aiding antimicrobial development.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Salmonella infections are a significant public health concern, particularly in children.
- Understanding gut microbiota dynamics during infection and antibiotic treatment is crucial for developing effective therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate an in vitro continuous colonic fermentation model simulating Salmonella infection.
- To assess the impact of amoxicillin on gut microbiota composition, metabolism, and Salmonella Typhimurium levels.
Main Methods:
- Development of a proximal colon fermentation model using immobilized child fecal microbiota and Salmonella Typhimurium.
- Application of two amoxicillin concentrations (90 and 180 mg/day) over a 43-day fermentation period.
- Monitoring of Salmonella concentrations, microbial populations (Enterobacteriaceae, Clostridium coccoides-Eubacterium rectale, Atopobium, Bifidobacteria), and metabolic activity.
Main Results:
- The model established a stable Salmonella Typhimurium concentration (log 7.5 cells/mL) and altered microbial populations.
- Amoxicillin treatment decreased Salmonella levels and shifted microbial balance, reducing C. coccoides-E. rectale and increasing Enterobacteriaceae.
- Salmonella levels rebounded upon cessation of amoxicillin, mirroring in vivo observations of Salmonella shedding.
Conclusions:
- The developed in vitro model accurately simulates Salmonella infection and amoxicillin effects in the pediatric gut.
- This model serves as a valuable tool for evaluating antimicrobials against enteropathogens.
- Findings highlight the dynamic interplay between microbiota, pathogen, and antibiotics in the colonic environment.
