Computer modeling of digestive processes in the alimentary tract and their physiological regulation mechanisms: closing the gap between digestion models and in vivo behavior

Abstract

Introduction: A model has been developed for in silico simulation of digestion and its physiological feedback mechanisms. Methods: The model is based on known physiology described in the literature and is able to describe the complexity of many simultaneous processes related to food digestion. Results: Despite the early stage of development of the model, it already encompasses a large number of processes that occur simultaneously, enabling the prediction of a large number of post-prandial physiological markers, which can be highly functional in combination with in vitro, organ-on-a-chip and digital twin models purposed to measure the physiological properties of organs and to predict the effect of adjusted food composition in normal and diseased states. Discussion: Input from and collaboration between science fileds is needed to further develop and refine the model and to connect with in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo (organ-on-a-chip) models.