Germ-free (GF) mice are powerful tools for studying host–microbe interactions. By introducing specific microbes or defined microbial communities into the gut of germ-free mice, researchers can establish gnotobiotic mouse models, including human microbiota-associated (HMA) mice, which are colonized with microbial communities derived from human donors. Compared to conventional laboratory mice, germ-free mice offer a unique advantage—they eliminate interference from the host’s native microbiota. This enables precise investigation into how specific gut microbes or microbial consortia influence host physiology, health, and disease phenotypes.

Germ-free mice also serve as an effective drug screening platform for evaluating the activity of small molecules and biotherapeutics that target the gut microbiota. The rearing and handling of both germ-free and gnotobiotic mice must be conducted under strictly sterile conditions. At Leeuwenhoek, our Bacterial Therapy Laboratory operate a fully equipped germ-free animal facility, supported by skilled technicians and rigorous microbial monitoring protocols, enabling the stable maintenance and manipulation of germ-free C57BL/6 mice. We provide end-to-end solutions, including microbiota transplantation into germ-free mice, sterile handling and experimentation with both germ-free and gnotobiotic models, as well as customized gnotobiotic services tailored to specific research objectives.