Preclinical models of irritable bowel syndrome

Abstract Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder of the gut-brain interaction, highly prevalent and impactful. Visceral hypersensitivity and alterations of colonic motility and defecation are definitory, but other features (increased intestinal permeability, anxiety, depression) also occur throughout the life of IBS patients. In this chapter, we will first review the different animal models that have been developed in an attempt to mimic IBS and its symptoms, which may vary according to the different underlying etiology. Thereafter, we will review the techniques and models that are used in vitro. Whereas in vivo models constitute the final preclinical step in the search of new effective and safe treatments, in vitro studies offer essential information on molecular mechanisms underlying the disease, which may open the gate to finding new treatment targets. Both approaches are therefore complementary and need to be considered for successful preclinical research on IBS.