Germ-free animals

Germ-free animals are specially raised laboratory animals that are kept free from any bacteria, viruses, or fungi. They are born and maintained in highly controlled environments, ensuring they do not acquire any microbes from the outside. Researchers use them to study how microbes affect health, development, and diseases by comparing them to animals with normal microbiomes. These animals help scientists understand the role of microorganisms in processes like digestion, immune function, and disease resistance, providing valuable insights that can inform medical research and treatments.