gut microbiome diet

In vivo models to study gastrointestinal Salmonella infections

15 April 2026

Thiers Ines, Lories Bram, Steenackers Hans

Summary

This research is a review of the various animal models scientists use to understand how Salmonella, a common cause of food poisoning, infects the gut. By studying these infections in different animals, from worms to pigs, researchers aim to develop better ways to prevent and treat these widespread foodborne illnesses. Ultimately, this foundational research helps protect our gut health and overall well-being.

Key Findings:

Non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) is a major global cause of foodborne illness.
In-depth understanding of Salmonella infections and how they interact with the host is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.
While lab-dish studies provide initial clues, animal (in vivo) models are essential for comprehending the full complexity of these infections.
A range of animal models exists, from simple invertebrates (like C. elegans worms) to more complex mammals (like mice, chickens, cows, and pigs), each offering unique insights.
No single model perfectly replicates natural human infection, so a combined approach using insights from multiple models is often necessary.

Practical Takeaways for Someone Interested in Nutrition and Longevity:

Preventing Foodborne Illness is Key: This research underpins efforts to prevent Salmonella, which, if contracted, can severely disrupt gut health, nutrient absorption, and overall vitality – all critical for longevity.
Support for Gut Health: A healthy gut microbiome is a cornerstone of longevity. Understanding how pathogens like Salmonella infect and damage the gut allows for better strategies to protect this vital system.
Informed Food Safety: The insights gained from these studies contribute to public health guidelines and food safety practices, indirectly helping you make safer food choices that protect your gut and long-term health.

Study Limitations: The review highlights that no single animal model can fully reflect the natural infection conditions in humans, necessitating a combinatory approach to gather comprehensive insights.

Abstract

ABSTRACT Given that non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) remains a leading cause of foodborne infections worldwide, efforts to detect and combat these pathogens continue to be a major focus of research. Enhancing Salmonella prevention and treatment strategies requires a comprehensive understanding of infection dynamics and host‒pathogen interactions. Although in vitro models can provide preliminary insights into these interactions, animal studies remain crucial in grasping the complexities. In this regard, invertebrate systems can be valuable for conducting high-throughput screenings, while higher-order animals can offer insights into more complex interactions. As no model is capable of fully reflecting the natural infection conditions, a combinatory approach, integrating insights from different models, is often required. Here, we review the state-of-the-art in vivo models used to study NTS infections, including the Caenorhabditis elegans , Danio rerio , chicken, murine, bovine, and pig models. By balancing their employability with their physiological and ecological relevance, we provide a thorough comparison of these models.

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