Germ-free (GF) mice are a relevant model system to study host-microbial interactions in health and disease. In this chapter, we underscore the importance of using GF mice model to study host-microbial interactions in obesity, immune development and gastrointestinal physiology by reviewing current literature. Furthermore, we also provide a brief protocol on how to setup a gnotobiotic facility in order to properly maintain and assess GF status in mice colonies.
Keywords: Germ-free; Gnotobiotic; Gut microbiome.