Mini-intestine grown in lab for nutritional research

London: Applying a new method that is used mainly in stem-cell research and regenerative medicine, researchers from the Technical University of Munich have now devised a robust mini-intestine in the lab for molecular research.

They first isolated small pieces of intestine containing stem cells - in this case from mice. In the next step, a nutrient solution in a test tube stimulated the stem cells to develop into an organ-like structure. In just a few days,

a spherical organoid was formed that measured just a quarter of a millimetre across and is suitable for use in research.

"The special thing about our scientific work on the intestinal organoid is that we can observe its inner workings," explained lead researcher Dr Tamara Zietek.

"The mini-intestines exhibit all the essential functions of a real intestine," he added. Owing to its enormous surface area - comparable to that of a one-bedroom apartment - and the huge number of neurons it contains, the intestine is sometimes referred to as the abdominal brain.