# ERI: Multiscale Electromechanical Modeling of Stomach Motility and Structure for Advancing Digital Twin Models

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Kennesaw State University Research and Service Foundation (GA) · $199,208

## Abstract

This Engineering Research Initiation (ERI) project supports research that studies the fundamental biomechanics of stomach motility to better understand how its complex structure contributes to digestive function. Millions of Americans suffer from gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome and gastroparesis, which cause significant discomfort and healthcare costs. These conditions are difficult to diagnose and treat because the stomach is not a uniform organ—it has multiple layers, each with different mechanical properties and fiber orientations that influence its ability to contract and move food. This project aims to fill this knowledge gap by integrating medical imaging, computer modeling, and biomechanics to study the stomach’s mechanical behavior in detail. By establishing a scientific foundation for stomach function, this research looks to help advance biomechanics and mechanobiology while training students in cutting-edge computational and experimental techniques. The project will also support science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education by offering hands-on training in biomedical engineering, computational modeling, and soft tissue mechanics, contributing to the development of a skilled workforce in biomedical research and healthcare technology.

This study intends to develop a multiscale, physics-based electromechanical modeling framework for stomach motility by integrating microstructure-based mechanics, ion-based electrophysiology, 

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2501698
- **Awardee organization:** Kennesaw State University Research and Service Foundation (GA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** G8DZHNRKWTN3
- **PI:** Lei Shi
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** BIOMECHANICS, UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION, GRADUATE INVOLVEMENT, RESEARCH INITIATION AWARD
- **Estimated total:** $199,208
- **Funds obligated:** $199,208
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 06/15/2025 → 05/31/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2501698

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2501698, ERI: Multiscale Electromechanical Modeling of Stomach Motility and Structure for Advancing Digital Twin Models. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-06 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2501698. Licensed CC0.

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