The system was developed by TNO, the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research.
[1] The models are dynamic computer controlled multi-compartmental systems with adjustable parameters for the physiological conditions of the stomach and intestine.
Commonly performed studies concern the digestibility of food and food components, the bioaccessibility for absorption of pharmaceutical compounds, proteins, fat, minerals and (water- and fat-soluble) vitamins.
Samples can be harvested for analysis from these models from any compartment at any time.
This model serves as a tool to study fermentation of non-digestible food components (fibers and prebiotics) and the release of drugs specifically targeted for the colon.