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Organoid-Derived Epithelial Monolayer: A Clinically Relevant In Vitro Model for Intestinal Barrier Function
Published on: July 29, 2021
6.9K
A bioengineering perspective on modelling the intestinal epithelial physiology in vitro.
Maria Antfolk1,2,3, Kim B Jensen4,5
1BRIC - Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark. maria.antfolk@bric.ku.dk.
Nature Communications
|December 8, 2020
Summary
Bioengineering advances offer new ways to study the small intestine. Researchers use engineered biomaterials and 3D structures to understand nutrient absorption and organ function in vitro.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Gastroenterology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The small intestine is vital for nutrient digestion and absorption, lined by a complex epithelial cell layer.
- Intestinal epithelial cells can self-organize in 3D scaffolds, forming distinct stem and differentiated cell domains.
- Bioengineering innovations are enabling new methods to direct cellular organization in vitro.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss how bioengineering and intestinal biology research provide insights into small intestine organ function.
- To highlight the role of engineered biomaterials in studying intestinal biology.
- To explore the application of 3D structures and micro-physiological systems in intestinal research.
Main Methods:
- Focus on studies at the interface of bioengineering and intestinal biology.
- Review of engineered biomaterials for cell culture.
- Analysis of complex 3D structures mimicking intestinal architecture.
- Examination of micro-physiological systems for intestinal research.
Main Results:
- Bioengineering approaches provide novel insights into small intestine organ function.
- Engineered biomaterials and 3D scaffolds facilitate the study of intestinal epithelial cell organization.
- Micro-physiological systems offer advanced platforms for in vitro intestinal research.
Conclusions:
- The integration of bioengineering with intestinal biology is crucial for advancing our understanding of small intestine function.
- Engineered systems, including 3D scaffolds and micro-physiological systems, are powerful tools for studying intestinal biology.
- Future research can leverage these bioengineering advancements to explore nutrient absorption and disease modeling.
