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Published on: July 4, 2018
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Using In Vitro Models to Study the Interactions Between Environmental Exposures and Human Microbiota.
Qiwen Cheng1,2, Shengxi Chen1
1Biodesign Center for Bioenergetics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA.
Microorganisms
|February 26, 2025
Summary
Human microbiota significantly impacts health and can modify environmental exposures. In vitro models are crucial for studying these interactions, especially outside the gut, but require further development.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Microbiology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Human microbiota and overall health are closely linked.
- Environmental exposures can alter microbiota composition and function, affecting health.
- Microbiota may protect hosts by neutralizing environmental agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the use of in vitro models for studying environmental exposure-microbiota interactions.
- To focus on extra-intestinal microbiota interactions.
- To identify research gaps and needs in this field.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus.
- Inclusion of studies investigating microbiota, environmental exposures, and in vitro models.
- Analysis of 58 selected studies.
Main Results:
- Evidence of microbial modulation of environmental exposures and vice versa was found.
- In vitro studies demonstrate significant interactions between microbiota and exposures.
- Research highlights the need for improved in vitro model designs and applications.
Conclusions:
- In vitro models are valuable tools for studying environmental exposure-microbiota interactions.
- Further refinement of in vitro models is necessary for accurate and comprehensive research.
- Enhanced models will advance understanding of extra-intestinal microbiota and environmental health.
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