Gnotobiotic Culture

Pronunciation
/g-NOH-tee-o-BI-otic kul-cher/
Category
Laboratory Technique
Singular
Gnotobiotic Culture
Plural
Gnotobiotic Cultures

Definition

A culture system where a known, defined set of microorganisms are maintained in a controlled environment.

Etymology

From Greek 'gnosis', meaning 'knowledge' and 'bios', meaning 'life'.

Example

Researchers often use gnotobiotic cultures to study the role of gut microbiota in health.

Related Terms

  • Germ-free
  • Microbiome