Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, in collaboration with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi, have developed a swallowable microdevice that can collect microbial samples directly from the small intestine, marking a significant advance in gut microbiome research. The collaboration brings together engineering expertise from IIT Delhi and clinical and biomedical research capabilities from AIIMS New Delhi.
The ingestible microdevice addresses key limitations of existing gut microbiome sampling methods. Stool sample analysis does not accurately represent microbial populations in the small intestine, while endoscopic procedures are invasive and unsuitable for repeated or large scale studies. The newly developed device is designed to remain sealed while passing through the stomach and then automatically open upon reaching the small intestine, where it collects gut fluid and microbial samples before sealing again and exiting the body naturally.
The device is extremely small, approximately the size of a grain of rice, and is made using biocompatible materials. Its opening mechanism is triggered by the intestinal environment, enabling targeted sampling from the small intestine. The retrieved samples can then be analysed to study microbial composition, metabolites and biomarkers linked to digestion, immunity and disease.
The microdevice has been successfully tested in animal models, demonstrating its safety and effectiveness in collecting intestinal samples. A patent has been filed for the technology, and further development is underway to optimise the device and advance it toward clinical trials in humans, subject to regulatory approvals.
The findings have been published in the international journal Small and point to potential applications in early disease detection, monitoring of gastrointestinal and metabolic disorders, and the development of personalised and targeted therapies through improved understanding of the small intestine microbiome.
The research received funding support from the Indian Council of Medical Research, highlighting institutional backing for interdisciplinary biomedical innovation involving leading engineering and medical research institutions in India.
