Czech scientists develop human lung model to aid treatments

Record ID: 77621

  • Title: Czech scientists develop human lung model to aid treatments
  • Date: 24th November 2016
  • Summary: (SOUNDBITE) (Czech) HEAD OF RESEARCH TEAM, MIROSLAV JICHA, SAYING: "This model will show whether an inhaled drug will settle in the concrete areas where we need it to." LUNG MODEL (SOUNDBITE) (Czech) HEAD OF RESEARCH TEAM, MIROSLAV JICHA, SAYING: "The point is to get data validating the computer modeling to show if the treatment will really work effectively." VARIOUS OF CYLINDERS PUMPING
  • Embargoed: 9th December 2016 11:58
  • Keywords: model lung simulation inhaled drug asthma
  • Location: BRNO, CZECH REPUBLIC
  • City: BRNO, CZECH REPUBLIC
  • Country: Czech Republic
  • Topics: Health/Medicine
  • Reuters ID: LVA00559T0661
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9
  • Story Text:Czech scientists have developed a model of a functioning human lung that can be used to simulate problems like asthma or other chronic diseases and their treatments.
    The research group from the Brno University of Technology says its mechanical- and computer-based model of the lung can help devise treatment methods with more precision than past testing and tailor it to individual patients.
    The model has 10 cylinders simulating the lung lobes which allow scientists to observe how particles are distributed during inhalation and exhalation.
    "First we check the records in the (medical) literature about how people with cancer in their lungs breathe. We then convert this record into digital form and this we put into the processor which moves the valves," scientist Frantisek Lizal explained.
    It can also be used as a reference model for developing inhaled drugs.
    "This model will show whether an inhaled drug will settle in the concrete areas where we need it to," said Miroslav Jicha, the head of the research team.
    The team see the model - developed using 3D printing and other technologies - becoming the European standard for testing. It has received three patents for its modeling.
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