A multiscale lattice Boltzmann model of macro-to micro-scale transport, with applications to gut function

Yanxing Wang, James G. Brasseur, Gino G. Banco, Andrew G. Webb, Amit C. Ailiani, Thomas Neuberger

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

56 Scopus citations

Abstract

Nutrient absorption in the small intestine cannot occur until molecules are presented to the epithelial cells that line intestinal villi, finger-like protrusions under enteric control. Using a two-dimensional multiscale lattice Boltzmann model of a lid-driven cavity flow with 'villi' at the lower surface, we analyse the hypothesis that muscle-induced oscillatory motions of the villi generate a controlled 'micro-mixing layer' (MML) that couples with the macro-scale flow to enhance absorption. Nutrient molecules are modelled as passive scalar concentrations at high schmidt number. Molecular concentration supplied at the cavity lid is advected to the lower surface by a lid-driven macro-scale eddy. We find that micro-scale eddying motions enhance the macro-scale advective flux by creating an MML that couples with the macro-scale flow to increase absorption rate. We show that the MML is modulated by its interactions with the outer flow through a diffusion-dominated layer that separates advection-dominated macro-scale and micro-scale mixed layers. The structure and strength of the MML is sensitive to villus length and oscillation frequency. Our model suggests that the classical explanation for the existence of villi-increased absorptive surface area-is probably incorrect. The model provides support for the potential importance of villus motility in the absorptive function of the small intestine.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)2863-2880
Number of pages18
JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences
Volume368
Issue number1921
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 28 2010

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Mathematics
  • General Engineering
  • General Physics and Astronomy

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