Mouse Microbiota Models: Comparing Germ-Free Mice and Antibiotics Treatment as Tools for Modifying Gut Bacteria

摘要: As the intestinal microbiota has become better appreciated as necessary for maintenance of physiologic homeostasis and also a modulator disease processes, there been corresponding increase in manipulation mouse models. While germ-free models are generally considered to be gold standard studies microbiota, many investigators turn antibiotics treatment rapid, inexpensive, accessible alternative. Here we describe compare these two approaches, detailing advantages disadvantages both. Further, detail what is known about effects on cell populations, cytokines, organs, clarify how this compares Finally, briefly recent findings regarding regulation infectious diseases other immunologic challenges by highlight important future directions considerations use microbiota.