Human intestinal organoids as models to study enteric bacteria and viruses

Laboratory studies of host-microbe interactions have historically been carried out using transformed cell lines and animal models. Although much has been learned from these models, recent advances in the development of multicellular, physiologically active, human intestinal organoid (HIO) cultures are allowing unprecedented discoveries of host-microbe interactions. Here, we review recent literature using HIOs as models to investigate the pathogenesis of clinically important enteric bacteria and viruses and study commensal intestinal microbes. We also discuss limitations of current HIO culture systems and how technical advances and innovative engineering approaches are providing new directions to improve the model. The studies discussed here highlight the potential of HIOs for studying microbial pathogenesis, host-microbe interactions, and for preclinical development of therapeutics and vaccines.

Automated summary

Laboratory studies of host-microbe interactions have traditionally used transformed cell lines and animal models. However, recent advances in human intestinal organoid (HIO) cultures have allowed exciting discoveries of host-microbe interactions. This review discusses the use of HIOs to study the pathogenesis of clinically important bacteria and viruses, as well as commensal intestinal microbes. It also explores limitations of current HIO culture systems and how technical advances are improving the model.