Download PDF
Open Access
CC BY 4.0 · Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41(05): 160-171
DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1778067
Review Article

Advanced Technologies for Studying Microbiome–Female Reproductive Tract Interactions: Organoids, Organoids-on-a-Chip, and Beyond

Authors

  • Yosun A. Kaya 

  • Marcel R. de Zoete 

    2   Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, The Netherlands

  • Gaby S. Steba 

    1   Division of Female and Baby, Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands

Funding This research was not supported by a specific grant or funding from the public, commercial, or nonprofit sectors. G.S.S. is supported by Merck.
Further Information
  Permissions and Reprints

Abstract

The female reproductive tract (FRT) is home to diverse microbial communities that play a pivotal role in reproductive health and disorders such as infertility, endometriosis, and cervical cancer. To understand the complex host–microbiota interactions within the FRT, models that authentically replicate the FRT's environment, including the interplay between the microbiota, mucus layer, immune system, and hormonal cycle, are key. Recent strides in organoid and microfluidic technologies are propelling research in this domain, offering insights into FRT–microbiota interactions and potential therapeutic avenues. This review delves into the current state of FRT organoid models and microbe integration techniques, evaluating their merits and challenges for specific research objectives. Emphasis is placed on innovative approaches and applications, including integrating organoids with microfluidics, and using patient-derived biobanks, as this offers potential for deeper mechanistic insights and personalized therapeutic strategies. Modeling various FRT properties in organoids is explored, from encompassing age-related epithelial features, oxygen levels, and hormonal effects to mucus layers, immune responses, and microbial interactions, highlighting their potential to transform reproductive health research and predict possible outcomes.

Keywords

female reproductive tract - organoids - in vitro models - microbiome - host–microbe interactions

Authors' Contribution

G.S.S initiated the study. G.S.S. and Y.A.K. drafted the study design. Y.A.K. performed the literature search and drafted the report. G.S.S. and M.R.d.Z. revised the manuscript critically. Final manuscript was approved by all the authors.




Publication History

Article published online:
23 January 2024

© 2024. The Author(s). This is an open access article published by Thieme under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, permitting unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction so long as the original work is properly cited. (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.
333 Seventh Avenue, 18th Floor, New York, NY 10001, USA