Protocol for developing a mucus-producing gut-on-a-chip model from Caco-2 and HT29-MTX-E12 cells

STAR Protocols 2026 Open access

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Authors: Valērija Movčana, Vendija Kozlova, Arnis Strods, Fēlikss Rūmnieks, Justs Zalums, Artūrs Ābols
DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2025.104321
Cited by: 1
References: 10

Abstract

Organ-on-chip (OoC) technology offers a more relevant gut model in comparison with static in vitro gut models from stable cell lines by replicating the 3D structure, mucus production, fluid dynamics, and mechanical forces, closely simulating in vivo conditions. Here, we present a protocol for developing a mucus-producing gut-on-a-chip model from Caco-2 and HT29-MTX-E12 cells. We describe steps for assessing model viability, evaluating barrier integrity, and employing different microscopy techniques, including confocal microscopy.

Fields of Study & Subjects

3D Printing in Biomedical Research Microfluidic and Bio-sensing Technologies Viral Infectious Diseases and Gene Expression in Insects

Publication details

Journal / source
STAR Protocols
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Volume
7
Issue
1
Pages
104321–104321
Publication date
5 January 2026
Language
EN