23-Dec-2025
Organs-on-a-chip recapitulating the gut–islets axis for endocrine hormone secretion regulator evaluation
ResearchPeer-Reviewed Publication
The gut–islets axis connects nutrient sensing in the intestine with insulin secretion from the pancreas and plays an essential role in glucose regulation. GLP-1 released by intestinal L cells can enhance β-cell insulin secretion, and bile acids have recently been shown to influence this process through receptors such as TGR5 and FXR. However, the interaction between gut-derived signals and islet responses is highly dynamic and difficult to reproduce with standard cell culture systems. Most in vitro models lack the three-dimensional structure and fluid environment needed to reflect physiological conditions. A platform that can better mimic gut–islets communication and allow controlled testing of metabolic regulators would therefore be valuable for studying glucose homeostasis and related diseases.
- Journal
- Research
- Funder
- National Natural Science Foundation Major International (Regional) Joint Research Program, National Natural Science Foundation of China, Key Research & Development Program of Jiangsu Province, Medical Key Discipline of Jiangsu Province, Southeast University Innovation Capability Enhancement Plan for Doctoral Students