Predicting human glucose response curve using an engineered small intestine system in combination with mathematical modeling

For decades, the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) has been commonly used to diagnose diabetes. Glucose response studies conducted with humans pose ethical and feasibility constraints. Therefore, dynamic systems for simulating the human digestion and absorption processes are gaining importance. This work aimed to develop, validate, and compare an engineered small intestine model for the prediction of the human glycemic concentration curve, against in-vivo data. Considering a mathematical modeling approach, the simulated model showed values of 120 mg/dL and 152 mg/dL at 30 and 60 min, respectively, comparable with corresponding in-vivo values of 130 and 150 mg/dL. The findings of this study infer that the engineered small intestine system can be used as an effective tool to study human glycemic responses. •Prediction of glucose response curve using an engineered small intestine model.•Intestinal integrity during glucose absorption was considered.•A mathematical model was used to mimic in-vivo insulin release.•Results from the engineered model mimic in-vivo values.•The approach can be extended to other nutrients and nutraceuticals.