Gastrointestinal Motility Recording Using Balloon Insertion.

Abstract

Gastrointestinal motility is one of the most important physiological functions of the digestive system. The migrating motor complex (MMC) is a characteristic form of movement that occurs in the gastrointestinal tract during fasting. The MMC is present in many species, including humans. Although the physiological role of the MMC is not completely understood, its abnormalities are associated with various diseases. The measurement of gastrointestinal motility is important for the diagnosis of gastrointestinal diseases. Thus, a system was constructed using a rubber condom and polyethylene (PE) tube, with one side placed in the gastrointestinal tract of the mice and the other side connected to the pressure transducer. Gastrointestinal movements were visualized when the balloon was squeezed during gastrointestinal movements. This study work provides a detailed protocol of the system's design and operation and shows representative results demonstrating its effectiveness. By using this system device, gastrointestinal motor function can be recorded in vivo. This provides additional approaches for future studies of gastrointestinal disorders.