University of Pisa and Harvard develop moving artificial intestine

Researchers from the University of Pisa, in collaboration with Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, have developed an innovative intestinal bioreactor that mimics human physiological conditions. Published in the journal Results in Engineering, the study details a device capable of reproducing peristalsis—the rhythmic movement of the intestines—and other mechanical stresses.

Unlike traditional static models, this bioreactor allows cultured cells to remain viable for at least 28 days and spontaneously organize into three-dimensional structures that resemble intestinal villi. Professor Giovanni Vozzi noted that mechanical movement is an essential factor in developing realistic tissue.

The technology aims to improve the precision of disease studies and drug efficacy testing, potentially reducing the reliance on animal experimentation. The device was developed through doctoral and Micro-B projects and has been patented in collaboration with researchers from the University of Pisa.