In vitro cell and tissue models for studying host-microbe interactions: a review

Area of Science:

• Microbiology and Immunology
• Cell Biology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Traditional in vitro cell culture models, such as epithelial monolayers, fail to replicate the complex in vivo environment.
• Functional epithelial features and crucial host-microbe interactions are not adequately established in simple monolayer cultures.
• Understanding the dynamic interplay between the intestinal epithelium, microbes, and the immune system requires more sophisticated models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and detail the various in vitro models employed for studying host-microbe interactions.
• To explore novel tools and advanced models that improve the study of these complex biological interactions.
• To enhance the understanding of molecular mechanisms governing host-microbe interactions in the gut.

Main Methods:

• Co-culture systems involving probiotics, dendritic cells, and intestinal epithelial cells.
• Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models, including organoids and tissue explants.
• Bioreactor systems designed to simulate physiological conditions.

Main Results:

• Advanced models like 3D organoids and co-cultures offer superior recapitulation of in vivo conditions compared to monolayers.
• These sophisticated models facilitate the study of luminal (epithelium-bacteria) and basolateral (epithelium-immune system) interactions.
• The review synthesizes current knowledge on in vitro models for host-microbe research.

Conclusions:

• Advanced in vitro models are essential for accurately studying host-microbe interactions in the gut.
• Novel tools and methodologies are continuously improving our ability to model complex in vivo biological systems.
• Further research using these advanced models will elucidate critical molecular mechanisms in gut health and disease.