Computer simulations of the hydrodynamics within the human gastrointestinal tract

The objective.
This PhD project will develop a computer model that describes the motion of viscous fluids in the colon caused by various motility events such as mixing (segmentation) and periodic contractions of its flexible walls (peristalsis).

The problem.
The colon is the least researched GI region in terms of drug absorption, yet for orally administered formulations, colonic absorption represents the only real opportunity to increase the interval between doses. The extent and importance of colonic absorption are, however, difficult to predict due to the highly variable transit time and permeability; lack of knowledge on fluid flow and a lack of in vivo predictive models.

The approach.
Nowadays, mathematical modelling and computer simulations have become a valuable investigation tool in medicine. In-silico models are increasingly supporting traditional in-vivo and in-vitro models to achieve a better understanding of many physiological and biomechanics phenomena. In addition, mechanistic models (PBPK) have significantly contributed on drug development and it’s required to be part of applications of pharmaceutical industries to regulatory bodies (FDA). During this project, the successful candidate will set up a computer model of the colon based on a novel modelling technique called Discrete Multi-Physics [1]. The model will be used to investigate the hydrodynamics and the mass transfer in the colon gaining a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of drug absorption in this organ.

The candidate.
Applicants require a 2:1 or higher MEng Honours degree in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering, Physics or in a related subject area. A high level of mathematical competence is essential for this project. Programming experience, previous work in fluid mechanics and/or particle methods (e.g. Molecular Dynamics or Discrete Element Method) would be an advantage.