In vitro simulations
Well-designed in vitro simulation technologies are a complementary tool to animal studies.
Being representative for specific processes, in vitro models enable reproducible detailed studies of these processes. The easier setup and sampling allow medium to high throughput studies at a much lower cost. Both pure and mixed cultures of bacteria are used. For simulation of the rumen and hindgut both ruminants and monogastrics are used as donor animal for inoculation.
We routinely use in vitro simulation technology to assess nutritive values of feeds (including tropical forages), for screening purposes (e.g. compounds affecting rumen methanogenesis and biohydrogenation) as well as for gaining mechanistic insights in these processes.
Projects relating to this technology
- Controlled release, uptake and enhanced (bio-)availability of active ingredients in ruminant feed and fertilizers by encapsulation (Encaps2Control)
- Happy Climate Milk: Reducing enteric emissions in dairy cattle through feeding strategies (HappyCliMi)
In vitro simulation of mycotoxin degradation
- Interactions between mycotoxins and the rumen, their possible toxicological effects on the gastrointestinal tract and their intestinal absorption in dairy cattle: an 'in vitro' approach