Abstract
<jats:p>Natural compounds have emerged as promising modulators of the gut function, offering therapeutic potential in conditions ranging from inflammatory bowel disease to metabolic disorders like diabetes and obesity. Murine models, particularly mice and rats, serve as indispensable tools for evaluating the physiological impacts of these bioactive substances due to their genetic tractability and translational relevance. Among the various techniques used to assess gut responses, the Ussing chamber system stands out as a powerful tool for evaluating intestinal barrier function, ion transport, and epithelial integrity in ex vivo tissue preparations. This particular technique also enables the evaluation of glucose transport mediated by the intestinal SGLT1 protein, providing valuable insights for research focused on developing antidiabetic therapies. The current review explores the application of the Ussing chamber in studies investigating the effects of bioactive natural compounds—such as polyphenols and flavonoids—on the active glucose transport in the intestine, while also highlighting how this technique complements other methodologies. By integrating insights from diverse approaches, this review underscores the value of the Ussing chamber technique in bridging molecular effects with physiological outcomes, offering a robust framework for future research on natural therapeutics targeting the gut.</jats:p>