We are delighted to announce that our GENEGUT partners from the Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (i3S) published a paper “Establishment of a 3D multi-layered in vitro model of inflammatory bowel disease” in the Journal of Controlled Release. The study introduces a pioneering three-dimensional (3D) multi-layered in vitro model of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), offering a promising new platform for screening potential therapeutic candidates for conditions such as Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis.
Key Highlights:
- A 3D in vitro IBD model with a multi-layered Transwell® system and immune competence was established.
- Alginate reinforced the matrix of collagen type I, preventing fibroblast-induced contraction.
- Pro-inflammatory stimuli of TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-1β, and LPS triggered the secretion of key IBD markers.
Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis are severe gastrointestinal disorders without definitive cures. The need for biorelevant in vitro models that closely mimic the IBD microenvironment is critical for validating new therapies. To address current gaps, the researchers from i3S developed a novel 3D in vitro model comprising a multi-layered gastrointestinal tissue with functional immune responses under inflammatory conditions.
The multi-layered architecture consists of a lamina propria-like hydrogel with human intestinal fibroblasts (HIF), supporting an epithelial layer composed of Caco-2 and HT29-MTX cells, along with an endothelial layer surrogating the absorptive capillary network. A collagen-alginate composite matrix was optimised for the lamina propria-like hydrogel, preserving HIF metabolic activity and morphology over time.
This innovative 3D model promises to accelerate drug development pipeline by providing reliable data on permeability and efficacy, while also reducing unnecessary animal experiments. Additionally, it serves as a valuable tool for studying IBD pathophysiology and the dynamics of cell interactions.
This groundbreaking research not only showcases advanced modelling techniques but also paves the way for more effective treatment strategies for IBD sufferers.
Stay tuned for more updates on the GENEGUT research findings!
Read the full publication here: Link to publication
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UK participants in Horizon Europe Project GENEGUT are supported by UKRI grant number 10042451 (Bangor University).