- Author(s):
- Organization(s):
Ab Initio Pharma Brac University Macquarie University Woolcock Institute of Medical Research
There are many disadvantages associated with in vivo animal models and excised nasal mucosa, including ethical considerations and interspecies variability. In vitro nasal anatomical models that are more physiologically representative of the nasal cavity can be of fundamental importance to study nasal drug deposition and predict in vitro–in vivo correlation (IVIVC), a regulatory requirement for the development of inhalation products.
Current models range from simplified geometries to advanced 3D-printed constructs that may closely mimic human anatomy based on imaging data. While 3D-printed models represent a significant improvement in physiological relevance and predictive capability, they still lack the ability to replicate dynamic biological processes, such as mucosal clearance, cellular responses and the impact of varied patient physiology. The integration of biomimetic materials and cellular components offers potential for more accurate simulation of drug absorption, metabolism and interaction with respiratory tissues, but these approaches remain under development. Future research should focus on addressing these limitations.