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Related Concept Videos

Probiotics01:22

Probiotics

Probiotics are live, non-pathogenic microorganisms that confer health benefits by modulating the gut microbiota. The human gastrointestinal tract harbors a complex microbial ecosystem, and the balance of this microbiota is crucial for digestive and systemic health. Among the most extensively studied and utilized probiotics are species formerly classified within the genera Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. These organisms not only naturally colonize the human gut but are also consumed through...
Introduction to the Human Microbiota01:22

Introduction to the Human Microbiota

Microorganisms colonize various regions of the human body, including the mouth, nasal passages, throat, stomach, intestines, urogenital tract, and skin. The total number of microbial cells is estimated to range from 10¹³ to 10¹⁴—comparable to, or exceeding, the number of human somatic cells. This host–microbiome relationship has led to the conceptualization of humans as supraorganisms, wherein microbial communities perform vital roles in development, immunity, and disease...
Microbiota of the Stomach and Small Intestine01:27

Microbiota of the Stomach and Small Intestine

The human gastrointestinal (GI) tract is characterized by distinct physicochemical conditions that shape its microbial communities. Among these, the stomach presents a particularly challenging environment for microbial colonization due to its highly acidic pH, ranging from 1 to 3. This extreme acidity effectively limits microbial density. However, certain acid-tolerant microorganisms are capable of surviving in this niche. Notably, Helicobacter pylori can colonize the gastric mucosa,...
Functions of the Gut Microbiota01:18

Functions of the Gut Microbiota

The gut microbiota includes trillions of microorganisms that colonize the human gastrointestinal tract, including bacteria, archaea, viruses, and fungi. This complex ecosystem plays a critical role in maintaining intestinal and systemic health. Most of these microbes inhabit the large intestine, establishing a relatively stable and diverse community that contributes to gut homeostasis through various metabolic, immunological, and protective mechanisms.Dominant bacterial phyla, such as...
Dysbiosis of the Gut Microbiota01:18

Dysbiosis of the Gut Microbiota

The human gut microbiome includes a diverse array of microbial species, including beneficial commensals and opportunistic pathogens, which interact to support host health. These microbes contribute to essential functions such as nutrient metabolism, immune system modulation, and maintenance of intestinal barrier integrity. However, disruptions to this equilibrium—referred to as dysbiosis—can have widespread physiological consequences.Dysbiosis is often characterized by reduced microbial...
Microbiota Modulation by Antibiotics01:21

Microbiota Modulation by Antibiotics

Antibiotics have revolutionized modern medicine by saving countless lives from bacterial infections. However, their widespread use has inadvertently harmed the delicate balance of the human gut microbiota. The gut microbiota, a complex community of bacteria, archaea, viruses, and fungi, plays a vital role in regulating metabolism, immune responses, and maintaining intestinal health. Antibiotics, especially broad-spectrum types, disrupt this ecosystem by eradicating both harmful and beneficial...

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Current Perspectives on Gastrointestinal Models to Assess Probiotic-Pathogen Interactions.

Mehreen Anjum1, Arja Laitila1, Arthur C Ouwehand1

  • 1International Flavors and Fragrances, Health and Biosciences, Danisco Sweeteners Oy, Kantvik, Finland.

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Summary

In vitro models offer a faster, ethical, and cost-effective alternative to in vivo studies for examining probiotic and pathogen interactions in the gut. The choice of model depends on specific research needs for accurate results.

Keywords:
epitheliumgutin vitromicrobiotapathogenprobiotic

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Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Microbiology
  • Biotechnology

Background:

  • Studying interactions between probiotics and pathogens in the human gastrointestinal tract is crucial for understanding gut health.
  • While in vivo models offer comprehensive insights, ethical concerns and logistical challenges necessitate alternative research methods.
  • There is a growing need for efficient and ethically sound models to investigate the complex interplay of microorganisms within the gut.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and compare various in vitro models for studying probiotic and pathogen interactions.
  • To highlight the advantages of in vitro methods over traditional in vivo approaches in terms of speed, cost, and ethics.
  • To guide researchers in selecting the optimal model based on their specific research objectives.

Main Methods:

  • Comparison of traditional, 2D (culture plates, Transwell inserts), and 3D (organoids, enteroids, organ-on-a-chip) in vitro models.
  • Evaluation of in vitro models for their ability to mimic the human intestinal epithelium.
  • Discussion of the applicability of these models for studying probiotic-pathogen dynamics.

Main Results:

  • In vitro models provide a rapid, ethical, and cost-effective platform for studying probiotic and pathogen interactions.
  • 2D and 3D in vitro models offer increasing complexity and physiological relevance compared to traditional methods.
  • The selection of an appropriate in vitro model is contingent upon the specific research question being addressed.

Conclusions:

  • In vitro models are valuable tools for investigating the mechanisms of probiotic and pathogen interactions in the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Advancements in 3D in vitro models offer more sophisticated and physiologically relevant research opportunities.
  • Well-designed in vitro and/or in vivo studies are essential for obtaining robust and clinically applicable findings on probiotic efficacy.