[Simulation of intestinal microbial overgrowth by continuous culture]

By the aid of continuous flow culture of microbial populations it is possible to answer specific micro_ecological questions even under anaerobic conditions. We present some findings from a continuous flow model of human duodenal juice with microbial overgrowth. Germ counts and species were reproducible in a steady state over several days. Metabolic activity was very high. For example, this model allows the in vitro study of therapeutic possibilities against overgrowth syndrome, microbial fermentation of food, metabolism of drugs and the growth of microorganisms on surfaces in gastrointestinal tract.