In vitro models to study human gut-microbiota interactions: Applications, advances, and limitations

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Animal models have limitations in studying human gut-microbiota interactions.
• In vitro models offer a viable alternative for mechanistic studies and high-throughput screening.
• The field of in vitro gut model development is rapidly advancing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and categorize existing in vitro human gut models.
• To describe the development, applications, advances, and limitations of these models.
• To provide guidance on selecting appropriate models and considering key variables for simulating gut interactions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on in vitro gut models.
• Categorization of models based on complexity (2D to 3D, simple to complex).
• Analysis of model development, applications, advances, and limitations with examples.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive overview of various in vitro gut models, from 2D to 3D.
• Detailed discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of different model systems.
• Identification of key factors for successful simulation of microbial and epithelial interactions.

Conclusions:

• In vitro gut models are essential tools for understanding gut physiology and microbiota.
• Selecting the right model depends on the specific research question and desired complexity.
• Further development is needed to accurately mimic the in vivo human gut environment.