New Tool: ProSource
Checkout our packaging and processing solutions finder, ProSource.

Ingestible Capsule Treats GI Disorders

The microstimulation device electrically stimulates stomach muscles to prompt contractions.

A recent PhysicsWorld article discussed a new device intended to treat gastrointestinal disorders. Historically, conditions like gastroparesis have been treated with the surgical implantation of gastric pacemakers that stimulate the outer muscle layer of the stomach. This costly and invasive procedure was replaced with ingestible robotic systems, but they have no way of controlling electrical microstimulation. 


See it Live at PACK EXPO Connects Nov. 9-13: Complete Solution for Liquid Unit Dose Cup Packaging, by Medical Packaging Inc. Preview the Showroom Here.


To address this, a team at MIT collaborated with Novo Nordisk and KTH Royal Institute of Technology to develop an orally administered electrical stimulation device. The ingestible pill mimics a parasitic worm that attaches to the GI tract of its host. It anchors to the stomach wall via needles that act as probes to create timed electrical pulses, thereby improving the device’s controllability. The device remains attached for up to two hours after being swallowed.

How Can You Honor a Leader?
Induction into the Packaging & Processing Hall of Fame is the highest honor in our industry. Submit your leader to be considered for the Class of 2024 now through June 10th. New members will be inducted at PACK EXPO International in Chicago
Read More
How Can You Honor a Leader?
Discover Our Content Hub
Access Packaging World's free educational content library!
Read More
Discover Our Content Hub