Unlike conventional lung models, the UD-designed system combines two key features:
- Cyclic breathing simulation, mimicking actual lung movement
- 3D-printed lattice structures, recreating lung volume and airway surface area
“This means that we can look at the entire dosage of an inhaled medicine. We can look at exposure over time, and we can capture what happens when you inhale the medication and where the medicine deposits, as well as what gets exhaled as you breathe,” explained Catherine Fromen.
The model is particularly useful in testing aerosol deposition during varied respiratory scenarios, from healthy breathing to asthma attacks or COPD flare-ups.