“…This validation of the explant assay is partly done to provide alternatives to drug development in cell-based assays and animal testing. Cell assays are preferred if the study concentrates on an effect in a specific cell type, but generally, a cell layer or even a well-constructed 3D in vitro model for studying IBD lack the complexity of a full and natural microenvironment present in the explant and will not reveal all intercellular pathways, especially without a valid inflammation state[ 17 , 18 , 20 , 21 , 36 , 37 ]. Compared to biopsies, however, cell-based models are readily available and can deliver high-throughput screenings and specific mode-of-action studies.…”