International networking on in vitro colon models simulating gut microbiota mediated interactions (INFOGUT)

Scientific literature is highlighting the importance of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract for human health and wellbeing. Nutrients, bioactives, and even toxic compounds (including foodborne pathogens) have their physiological effects mediated by their absorption rate in the intestine and their interaction with gut microbiota and the host ecosystem. Testing food, feed, supplements, or drugs in clinical studies raises ethical issues, and transferring animal data across species can be problematic due to differences in physiology, metabolism, and chemical susceptibilities. According to a recent survey by the European Commission (EURL ECVAM, 2021), complex in vitro models (CIVMs) should be adequate not only for regulatory use but also for research, provided that standardized CIVMs are developed to enable consensus on their use. This COST Action aims to fill the knowledge gap on in vitro colon models by providing consensus protocols and robust datasets to improve our understanding of the intestinal environment, including interactions between microbiota and the host. Moreover, innovative educational tools will be suggested to increase knowledge of gut models among young researchers and the public, preventing unhealthy consumer choices based on misleading messages. Bringing together experts in Gastroenterology, Microbiology, Physiology, Nutrition, Food Science, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Biotechnology, etc., the COST Action could be an effective strategy for developing healthy food and combating diseases.