Intestinal organoids of farm animals: new in vitro models for a better understanding of intestinal functions

Abstract

The intestine is a complex organ with multiple functions. Indeed, it participates in the digestion and absorption of nutrients and protects the host from enteropathogen attack by providing a barrier function. However, the study of this digestive compartment remains limited due to access to human or animal tissues. In this context, the development of intestinal organoids derived from stem cells represents an important technological advance in the study of intestinal physiopathology. In addition, this tool makes it possible to respond to a societal demand aimed at reducing the use of animal models in research and is part of the 3R principle (Replacement, Reduction and Refinement). The objective of this review is, from reminders of the digestive function, to make an inventory of the different types of existing intestinal organoids derived from farm animals and to discuss their advantages, their limits and especially applications where they are used.