Gut-Chip

Researchers at Harvard have simplified and shrunk the human intestine to the point that they can fit it on a chip you could probably swallow and digest yourself. The chip mimics the exchange and peristaltic functions of the normal intestine, which will allow for an effective in-vitro example of an environment that could only be found in-vivo previously. The researchers hope that this approximation will allow for a more systematic, controlled approach to testing drugs and gives an alternative to animal testing, which doesn't always predict results in humans. The chip consists of two channels separated by a semipermeable membrane coated in human epithelial cells like those found in the intestine. Microfauna normally found in the intestine can also be introduced to this environment for a comprehensive representation of the human intestine. This research group has also developed or is developing many other "chips" to represent other organs and organ systems, including spleens and a heart lung system.

http://spectrum.ieee.org/tech-talk/biomedical/devices/researchers-build-gut-on-a-chip

http://wyss.harvard.edu/viewpressrelease/80/

http://pubs.rsc.org/en/Content/ArticleLanding/2012/LC/c2lc40074j