An automated modular microsystem for enzymatic digestion with gut-on-a-chip applications

Gut-on-a-chip models have gained attention as replacements for other cell-based assays or animal studies in drug development or toxicological studies. These models aim to provide a more accurate representation of the in vivo situation in form and function; however, no digestive processes have been included in these systems so far. This work describes a miniaturized digestive system based on artificial digestive juices that digest liquid samples in a series of three microreactors. After optimization of the pH value of juices and mixtures, samples leading to fluorescent products were digested to demonstrate enzyme functionality and to determine kinetic parameters.