Recent advances in lung-on-a-chip models

Abstract

With the global burden of respiratory diseases, rapid identification of the best therapeutic measures to combat these diseases is essential. Animal models and 2D cell culture models do not replicate the findings observed in vivo. To gain deeper insight into lung pathology and physiology, 3D and advanced lung-on-a-chip models have been developed recently. Lung-on-a-chip models more accurately simulate the lung's microenvironment and functions in vivo, resulting in more-accurate assessments of drug safety and effectiveness. This review discusses the transition from 2D to 3D models and the recent advances in lung-on-a-chip platforms, their implementation and the numerous challenges faced. Finally, a general overview of this platform and its potential applications in respiratory disease research and drug discovery is highlighted.

Keywords: Lung-on-a-chip; Lungs; Organ-on-a-chip; Respiratory diseases; Respiratory system.