Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 3, 2025
Murine Fecal Isolation and Microbiota Transplantation
Published on: May 26, 2023
Protocol for fecal microbiota transplantation: A microaerophilic approach for mice housed in a specific pathogen-free
Shari Wouters1, Hugo Moors2, Mieke Verslegers2
1Microbiology & Radiobiology Units, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK CEN, 2400 Mol, Belgium; Molecular Pathology Group, Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium.
Abstract:
Recently, studies have emerged exploring the potential application of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) in pre-clinical settings. Here, we present a protocol for FMT for mice housed in a specific pathogen-free (SPF) facility. We describe steps for sample collection, microaerophilic processing of freshly collected fecal pellets, and administration through oral gavage. We then detail procedures for the engraftment of the bacterial community. This protocol focuses on age- and gender-matched, healthy donor mice using a mobile and cost-effective alternative to an anoxic cabinet.
Insights
This study details a cost-effective fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) protocol for mice in specific pathogen-free (SPF) facilities. The method uses microaerophilic processing and oral gavage for efficient bacterial community engraftment.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Gnotobiology
- Animal models
Background:
- Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) shows promise in pre-clinical research.
- Standard FMT protocols often require specialized, expensive equipment like anoxic cabinets.
- There is a need for accessible and cost-effective FMT methods in research settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a detailed protocol for performing FMT in mice within a specific pathogen-free (SPF) facility.
- To describe a mobile and cost-effective alternative to anoxic cabinets for FMT sample processing.
- To outline procedures for successful bacterial community engraftment.
Main Methods:
- Fecal sample collection from age- and gender-matched healthy donor mice.
- Microaerophilic processing of freshly collected fecal pellets.
- Administration of fecal samples via oral gavage to recipient mice.
Main Results:
- Successful engraftment of bacterial communities was achieved using the described protocol.
- The protocol provides a viable, cost-effective alternative to traditional anoxic methods.
- The method is suitable for mice housed in SPF facilities.
Conclusions:
- This protocol offers a practical and economical approach to FMT in pre-clinical mouse models.
- The described method facilitates reproducible bacterial community transplantation in SPF environments.
- The protocol can be implemented using readily available, mobile equipment.
