A model of the human gut removes the need for animal testing 

The system provides detailed analysis of how products are absorbed by the body after digestion

Spotted: There is increasing demand for laboratory testing services as companies seek to test formulations of new drugs and foodstuffs. However, this process has typically relied on a lot of animal testing. At a time when many companies are looking to move away from animal tests in response to lobbying and mounting evidence of the limitations of using animals to study human disease, alternative solutions are needed, and Newcastle University spin-off Aelius Biotech is providing one.

The company’s lab-based model of the human gut allows organisations to test out possible new products without using animals. The new process speeds up the time it takes to research and develop pharmaceuticals and foods and eliminates the ethical concerns associated with testing on animals. 

The laboratory digestive model is a world-first as it simulates all three stages of digestion, in which substances pass through the gut, cross its surface layer of mucus, and are finally absorbed into the body. The company offers a range of tools that provide partners with information on cell damage, nutrient absorption, airway effectiveness, speed of flow throughout the body, and more. 

Aelius Biotech’s team has decades of experience in human trials and gastrointestinal research and provides consultancy services as well as support in designing trials for product research. The predictive lab has the space and technology to run a variety of tests and models, such as screening and testing for bioactive effects, reformulation of drugs to reduce toxicity, and bespoke analyses.

The company recently raised £1.25 million from the North East Venture Fund and will use the funding to build and equip new lab space and triple the size of its team over the next two years. 

Springwise has previously spotted other innovations reducing the need for animal testing, such as a bio-printed skin, and an animal-free method for assessing the neurotoxicity of chemicals.

Written By: Keely Khoury