Patient-specific modeling of regional antibiotic concentration levels in airways of patients with cystic fibrosis: are we dosing high enough?

Small Airways Disease Affects Aerosol Deposition in Children with Severe Asthma: A Functional Respiratory Imaging Study

Background: Small airways disease (SAD) in severe asthma (SA) is associated with high disease burden. Effective treatment of SAD could improve disease control. Reduced end-expiratory flows (forced expiratory flow [FEF]25-75 and FEF75) are considered sensitive indicators of SAD. Inhaled medication should be delivered to the smaller peripheral airways to treat SAD effectively. Aerosol deposition is affected by structural airway changes. Little is known about the effect of SAD on aerosol delivery to the smaller peripheral airways. Functional respiratory imaging (FRI) is a validated technique using 3D reconstructed chest computed tomography (CT) and computational fluid dynamics to predict aerosol deposition in the airways. Aim: This study aims to compare central and peripheral (= small airways) deposition between children with SA and SAD and children with SA without SAD, with different inhaler devices and inhalation profiles. Methods: FRI was used to predict the deposition of beclomethasone/formoterol dry powder inhaler (DPI), beclomethasone/formoterol pressurized metered dose inhaler with valved holding chamber (pMDI/VHC), and salbutamol pMDI/VHC for different device-specific inhalation profiles in chest-CT of 20 children with SA (10 with and 10 without SAD). SAD was defined as FEF25-75 and FEF75 z-score < -1.645 and forced vital capacity (FVC) z-score > -1.645. No SAD was defined as forced expiratory volume (FEV)1, FEF25-75, FEF75, and FVC z-score > -1.645. The intrathoracic, central, and peripheral airways depositions were determined. Primary outcome was difference in central-to-peripheral (C:P) deposition ratio between children with SAD and without SAD. Results: Central deposition was significantly higher (∼3.5%) and peripheral deposition was lower (2.9%) for all inhaler devices and inhalation profiles in children with SAD compared with children without SAD. As a result C:P ratios were significantly higher for all inhaler devices and inhalation profiles, except for beclomethasone administered through DPI (p = .073), in children with SAD compared with children without SAD. Conclusion: Children with SA and SAD have higher C:P ratios, that is, higher central and lower peripheral aerosol deposition, than children without SAD. The intrathoracic, central, and peripheral deposition of beclomethasone/formoterol using DPI was lower than using pMDI/VHC.

Modeling Realistic Geometries in Human Intrathoracic Airways

Geometrical models of the airways offer a comprehensive perspective on the complex interplay between lung structure and function. Originating from mathematical frameworks, these models have evolved to include detailed lung imagery, a crucial enhancement that aids in the early detection of morphological changes in the airways, which are often the first indicators of diseases. The accurate representation of airway geometry is crucial in research areas such as biomechanical modeling, acoustics, and particle deposition prediction. This review chronicles the evolution of these models, from their inception in the 1960s based on ideal mathematical constructs, to the introduction of advanced imaging techniques like computerized tomography (CT) and, to a lesser degree, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The advent of these techniques, coupled with the surge in data processing capabilities, has revolutionized the anatomical modeling of the bronchial tree. The limitations and challenges in both mathematical and image-based modeling are discussed, along with their applications. The foundation of image-based modeling is discussed, and recent segmentation strategies from CT and MRI scans and their clinical implications are also examined. By providing a chronological review of these models, this work offers insights into the evolution and potential future of airway geometry modeling, setting the stage for advancements in diagnosing and treating lung diseases. This review offers a novel perspective by highlighting how advancements in imaging techniques and data processing capabilities have significantly enhanced the accuracy and applicability of airway geometry models in both clinical and research settings. These advancements provide unique opportunities for developing patient-specific models.

Non-spherical drug particle deposition in human airway using computational fluid dynamics and discrete element method

Currently, the air pollution and the respiratory disease problems that affect human health are increasing rapidly. Hence, there is attention for trend prediction of the located deposition of inhaled particles. In this study, Weibel's based human airway model (G0-G5) was employed. The computational fluid dynamics and discrete element method (CFD-DEM) simulation was successfully validated by comparison to the previous research studies. The CFD-DEM achieves a better balance between numerical accuracy and computational requirement when comparing with the other methods. Then, the model was used to analyze the non-spherical drug transport with different drug particle sizes, shapes, density, and concentrations. The results found that all the studied factors affected the drug deposition and particle out-mass percentage except the drug concentration. The drug deposition was increased with the increasing of particle size and particle density due to the influence of particle inertia. The Tomahawk-shaped drug deposited easier than the cylindrical drug shape because of the different drag behavior. For the effect of airway geometries, G0 was the maximum deposited zone and G3 was the minimum deposited zone. The boundary layer was found around bifurcation due to the shear force at the wall. Finally, the knowledge can give an essential recommendation for curing patients with pharmaceutical aerosol. The design suggestion of a proper drug delivery device can be summarized.

Differential Performance and Lung Deposition of Levofloxacin with Different Nebulisers Used in Cystic Fibrosis

We compared the performance and levofloxacin (Quinsair) lung deposition of three nebulisers commonly used in CF (I-Neb Advance, eFlow rapid, and LC Plus) with the approved nebuliser Zirela. The delivered dose, delivery rate, and aerosol particle size distribution (APSD) for each device were determined using the methods described in the Pharmacopeia. High-resolution computed tomography scans obtained from seven adult patients with mild CF were used to generate computer-aided, three-dimensional models of their airway tree to assess lung deposition using functional respiratory imaging (FRI). The eFlow rapid and the LC Plus showed poor delivery efficiencies due to their high residual volumes. The I-Neb, which only delivers aerosols during the inspiratory phase, achieved the highest aerosol delivery efficiency. However, the I-Neb showed the largest particle size and lowest delivery rate (2.9 mg/min), which were respectively associated with a high extrathoracic deposition and extremely long nebulisation times (>20 min). Zirela showed the best performance considering delivery efficiency (159.6 mg out of a nominal dose of 240 mg), delivery rate (43.5 mg/min), and lung deposition (20% of the nominal dose), requiring less than 5 min to deliver a full dose of levofloxacin. The present study supports the use of drug-specific nebulisers and discourages the off-label use of general-purpose devices with the present levofloxacin formulation since subtherapeutic lung doses and long nebulisation times may compromise treatment efficacy and adherence.

Functional analysis of the airways after pulmonary lobectomy through computational fluid dynamics

Pulmonary lobectomy, which consists of the partial or complete resection of a lung lobe, is the gold standard intervention for lung cancer removal. The removal of functional tissue during the surgery and the re-adaptation of the remaining thoracic structures decrease the patient's post-operative pulmonary function. Residual functionality is evaluated through pulmonary function tests, which account for the number of resected segments without considering local structural alterations and provide an average at-the-mouth estimation. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) has been demonstrated to provide patient-specific, quantitative, and local information about airways airflow dynamics. A CFD investigation was performed on image-based airway trees reconstructed before and after the surgery for twelve patients who underwent lobectomy at different lobes. The geometrical alterations and the variations in fluid dynamics parameters and in lobar ventilation between the pre and post-operative conditions were evaluated. The post-operative function was estimated and compared with current clinical algorithms and with actual clinical data. The post-operative configuration revealed a high intersubject variability: regardless of the lobectomy site, an increment of global velocity, wall pressure, and wall shear stress was observed. Local flow disturbances also emerged at, and downstream of, the resection site. The analysis of lobar ventilation showed severe variations in the volume flow rate distribution, highlighting the compensatory effects in the contralateral lung with an increment of inflow. The estimation of post-operative function through CFD was comparable with the current clinical algorithm and the actual spirometric measurements. The results confirmed that CFD could provide additional information to support the current clinical approaches both in the operability assessment and in the prescription of personalized respiratory rehabilitation.

Bronchiectasis and inhaled tobramycin: A literature review

BACKGROUND

Inhaled antibiotics have been incorporated into contemporary European and British guidelines for bronchiectasis, yet no inhaled antibiotics have been approved in the United States or Europe for the treatment of bronchiectasis not related to cystic fibrosis. Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection is common in patients with bronchiectasis, contributing to a cycle of progressive inflammation, exacerbations, and airway remodelling.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the current study was to identify and evaluate published studies of inhaled tobramycin solution or powder in patients with bronchiectasis and P. aeruginosa infection not associated with cystic fibrosis.

METHODS

A literature review was conducted utilising the PubMed and Cochrane databases. Studies published in the English language that reported safety and/or efficacy outcomes of inhaled tobramycin either alone or in combination with other antibiotics were included.

RESULTS

Seven clinical trials published between 1999 and 2021 were identified that met inclusion criteria. Inhaled tobramycin therapy was effective in reducing P. aeruginosa microbial density in the sputum of patients with bronchiectasis. Several studies demonstrated favourable impacts on hospitalisations, number and severity of exacerbations, and symptoms. Other studies were underpowered for these clinical outcomes or were exploratory in nature. Although tobramycin was generally well tolerated, some evidence of treatment-associated wheezing was reported.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with bronchiectasis and chronic P. aeruginosa infection, inhaled tobramycin was effective in reducing the density of bacteria in sputum, which may be associated with additional clinical benefits. Definitive phase 3 trials of inhaled tobramycin in patients with bronchiectasis are indicated to determine clinical efficacy and long-term safety.

Deposition of Inhaled Levofloxacin in Cystic Fibrosis Lungs Assessed by Functional Respiratory Imaging

Pulmonary infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) represent the leading cause of pulmonary morbidity in adults with cystic fibrosis (CF). In addition to tobramycin, colistin, and aztreonam, levofloxacin has been approved in Europe to treat PA infections. Nevertheless, no lung deposition data on inhaled levofloxacin are yet available. We conducted a Functional Respiratory Imaging (FRI) study to predict the lung deposition of levofloxacin in the lungs of patients with CF. Three-dimensional airway models were digitally reconstructed from twenty high-resolution computed tomography scans obtained from historical patients' records. Levofloxacin aerosols generated with the corresponding approved nebuliser were characterised according to pharmacopeia. The obtained data were used to inform a computational fluid dynamics simulation of levofloxacin lung deposition using breathing patterns averaged from actual CF patients' spirometry data. Levofloxacin deposition in the lung periphery was significantly reduced by breathing patterns with low inspiratory times and high inspiratory flow rates. The intrathoracic levofloxacin deposition percentages for moderate and mild CF lungs were, respectively, 37.0% ± 13.6 and 39.5% ± 12.9 of the nominal dose. A significant albeit modest correlation was found between the central-to-peripheral deposition (C/P) ratio of levofloxacin and FEV1. FRI analysis also detected structural differences between mild and moderate CF airways. FRI revealed a significant intrathoracic deposition of levofloxacin aerosols, which distributed preferentially to the lower lung lobes, with an influence of the deterioration of FEV1 on the C/P ratio. The three-dimensional rendering of CF airways also detected structural differences between the airways of patients with mild and moderate CF.

Lung inflammation and simulated airway resistance in infants with cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is characterized by small airway disease; but central airways may also be affected. We hypothesized that airway resistance estimated from computational fluid dynamic (CFD) methodology in infants with CF was higher than controls and that early airway inflammation in infants with CF is associated with airway resistance. Central airway models with a median of 51 bronchial outlets per model (interquartile range 46,56) were created from chest computed tomography scans of 18 infants with CF and 7 controls. Steady state airflow into the trachea was simulated to estimate central airway resistance in each model. Airway resistance was increased in the full airway models of infants with CF versus controls and in models trimmed to 33 bronchi. Airway resistance was associated with markers of inflammation in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid obtained approximately 8 months earlier but not with markers obtained at the same time. In conclusion, airway resistance estimated by CFD modeling is increased in infants with CF compared to controls and may be related to early airway inflammation.

Computational fluid dynamics of the airways after left-upper pulmonary lobectomy: A case study

Pulmonary lobectomy is the gold standard intervention for lung cancer removal and consists of the complete resection of the affected lung lobe, which, coupled with the re-adaptation of the remaining thoracic structures, decreases the postoperative pulmonary function of the patient. Current clinical practice, based on spirometry and cardiopulmonary exercise tests, does not consider local changes, providing an average at-the-mouth estimation of residual functionality. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) has proved a valuable solution to obtain quantitative and local information about airways airflow dynamics. A CFD investigation was performed on the airway tree of a left-upper pulmonary lobectomy patient, to quantify the effects of the postoperative alterations. The patient-specific bronchial models were reconstructed from pre- and postoperative CT scans. A parametric laryngeal model was merged to the geometries to account for physiological-like inlet conditions. Numerical simulations were performed in Fluent. The postoperative configuration revealed fluid dynamic variations in terms of global velocity (+23%), wall pressure (+48%), and wall shear stress (+39%). Local flow disturbances emerged at the resection site: a high-velocity peak of 4.92 m/s was found at the left-lower lobe entrance, with a local increase of pressure at the suture zone (18 Pa). The magnitude of pressure and secondary flows increased in the trachea and flow dynamics variations were observed also in the contralateral lung, causing altered lobar ventilation. The results confirmed that CFD is a patient-specific approach for a quantitative evaluation of fluid dynamics parameters and local ventilation providing additional information with respect to current clinical approaches.

Filamentous Bacteriophages and the Competitive Interaction between Pseudomonas aeruginosa Strains under Antibiotic Treatment: a Modeling Study

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) is a major bacterial pathogen responsible for chronic lung infections in cystic fibrosis patients. Recent work has implicated Pf bacteriophages, nonlytic filamentous viruses produced by Pa, in the chronicity and severity of Pa infections. Pf phages act as structural elements in Pa biofilms and sequester aerosolized antibiotics, thereby contributing to antibiotic tolerance. Consistent with a selective advantage in this setting, the prevalence of Pf-positive (Pf+) bacteria increases over time in these patients. However, the production of Pf phages comes at a metabolic cost to bacteria, such that Pf+ strains grow more slowly than Pf-negative (Pf-) strains in vitro. Here, we use a mathematical model to investigate how these competing pressures might influence the relative abundance of Pf+ versus Pf- strains in different settings. Our model suggests that Pf+ strains of Pa cannot outcompete Pf- strains if the benefits of phage production falls onto both Pf+ and Pf- strains for a majority of parameter combinations. Further, phage production leads to a net positive gain in fitness only at antibiotic concentrations slightly above the MIC (i.e., concentrations for which the benefits of antibiotic sequestration outweigh the metabolic cost of phage production) but which are not lethal for Pf+ strains. As a result, our model suggests that frequent administration of intermediate doses of antibiotics with low decay rates and high killing rates favors Pf+ over Pf- strains. These models inform our understanding of the ecology of Pf phages and suggest potential treatment strategies for Pf+ Pa infections. IMPORTANCE Filamentous phages are a frontier in bacterial pathogenesis, but the impact of these phages on bacterial fitness is unclear. In particular, Pf phages produced by Pa promote antibiotic tolerance but are metabolically expensive to produce, suggesting that competing pressures may influence the prevalence of Pf+ versus Pf- strains of Pa in different settings. Our results identify conditions likely to favor Pf+ strains and thus antibiotic tolerance. This study contributes to a better understanding of the unique ecology of filamentous phages in both environmental and clinical settings and may facilitate improved treatment strategies for combating antibiotic tolerance.

Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic approaches to drug delivery design for inhalation drugs

Introduction: Inhaled drugs are important in the treatment of many lung pathologies, but to be therapeutically effective they must reach unbound concentrations at their effect site in the lung that are adequate to interact with their pharmacodynamic properties (PD) and exert the pharmacological action over an appropriate dosing interval. Therefore, the evaluation of pharmacokinetic (PK)/PD relationship is critical to predict their possible therapeutic effect.Areas covered: We review the approaches used to assess the PK/PD relationship of the major classes of inhaled drugs that are prescribed to treat pulmonary pathologies.Expert opinion: There are still great difficulties in producing data on lung concentrations of inhaled drugs and interpreting them as to their ability to induce the desired therapeutic action. The structural complexity of the lungs, the multiplicity of processes involved simultaneously and the physical interactions between the lungs and drug make any PK/PD approach to drug delivery design for inhalation medications extremely challenging. New approaches/methods are increasing our understanding about what happens to inhaled drugs, but they are still not ready for regulatory purposes. Therefore, we must still rely on plasma concentrations based on the axiom that they reflect both the extent and the pattern of deposition within the lungs.

The short-term effects of ORKAMBI (lumacaftor/ivacaftor) on regional and distal lung structures using functional respiratory imaging

BACKGROUND

Lumacaftor/ivacaftor (LUM/IVA) has shown modest benefits in previous research, but the exact effects in the cystic fibrosis (CF) lung remain unclear. This study aims to offer novel information on the mode of action of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR)-modulating drug by assessing lung structure and function using functional respiratory imaging (FRI).

METHODS

CF patients aged ⩾12 years homozygous for F508del were recruited in an open-label study. Before and after 12 weeks of treatment with LUM/IVA, FRI was used to visualize regional information, such as air trapping, lobar volume and airway wall volume. Secondary outcomes included the CF-CT scoring system, spirometry, the Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire-Revised (CFQ-R) questionnaire, exercise tolerance and nutritional status.

RESULTS

Of the 12 patients enrolled in the study, 11 completed all study visits. Concerning the FRI parameters, hyperinflation of the lung decreased, indicated by a reduction in air trapping and lobar volume at expiration. Also, a decrease in airway wall volume and a redistribution of pulmonary blood volume were noted, which might be related to a decrease in mucus impaction. Airway resistance, airway volume, internal airflow distribution and aerosol deposition pattern did not show significant changes. No significant improvements were found in any of the CF-CT scores or in the spirometric parameters. Other secondary outcomes showed similar results compared with previous research. Correlations at baseline were found between FRI and conventional outcomes, including physical functioning, spirometry and CF-CT scores.

CONCLUSIONS

LUM/IVA decreased lung hyperinflation in combination with a potential decrease in mucus impaction, which can be related to an improved mucociliary transport. These results indicate that several FRI parameters, reflecting regional and distal lung structures, are more sensitive to changes caused by LUM/IVA than conventional respiratory outcomes.

The pharmacokinetics of antibiotics in cystic fibrosis

INTRODUCTION

Dosing of antibiotics in people with cystic fibrosis (CF) is challenging, due to altered pharmacokinetics, difficulty of lung tissue penetration, and increasing presence of antimicrobial resistance.

AREAS COVERED

The purpose of this work is to critically review original data as well as previous reviews and guidelines on pharmacokinetics of systemic and inhaled antibiotics in CF, with the aim to propose strategies for optimization of antibacterial therapy in both children and adults with CF.

EXPERT OPINION

For systemic antibiotics, absorption is comparable in CF patients and non-CF controls. The volume of distribution (Vd) of most antibiotics is similar between people with CF with normal body composition and healthy individuals. However, there are a few exceptions, like cefotiam and tobramycin. Many antibiotic class-dependent changes in drug metabolism and excretion are reported, with an increased total body clearance for ß-lactam antibiotics, aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, and trimethoprim. We, therefore, recommend following class-specific guidelines for CF, mostly resulting in higher dosages per kg bodyweight in CF compared to non-CF controls. Higher local antibiotic concentrations in the airways can be obtained by inhalation therapy, with which eradication of bacteria may be achieved while minimizing systemic exposure and risk of toxicity.

Construction of a hybrid lung model by combining a real geometry of the upper airways and an idealized geometry of the lower airways

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Health care costs represent a substantial an increasing percentage of global expenditures. One key component is treatment of respiratory diseases, which account for one in twelve deaths in Europe. Computational simulations of lung airflow have potential to provide considerable cost reduction and improved outcomes. Such simulations require accurate in silico modeling of the lung airway. The geometry of the lung is extremely complex and for this reason very simple morphologies have primarily been used to date. The objective of this work is to develop an effective methodology for the creation of hybrid pulmonary geometries combining patient-specific models obtained from CT images and idealized pulmonary models, for the purpose of carrying out experimental and numerical studies on aerosol/particle transport and deposition in inhaled drug delivery.

METHODS

For the construction of the hybrid numerical model, lung images obtained from computed tomography were exported to the DICOM format to be treated with a commercial software to build the patient-specific part of the model. At the distal terminus of each airway of this portion of the model, an idealization of a single airway path is connected, extending to the sixteenth generation. Because these two parts have different endings, it is necessary to create an intermediate solid to link them together. Physically realistic treatment of truncated airway boundaries in the model was accomplished by mapping of the flow velocity distribution from corresponding conducting airway segments.

RESULTS

The model was verified using two sets of simulations, steady inspiration/expiration and transient simulation of forced spirometry. The results showed that the hybrid model is capable of providing a realistic description of air flow dynamics in the lung while substantially reducing computational costs relative to models of the full airway tree.

CONCLUSIONS

The model development outlined here represents an important step toward computational simulation of lung dynamics for patient-specific applications. Further research work may consist of investigating specific diseases, such as chronic bronchitis and pulmonary emphysema, as well as the study of the deposition of pollutants or drugs in the airways.

Inhaled Liposomal Antimicrobial Delivery in Lung Infections

The management of difficult-to-treat acute and chronic respiratory infections (infections in cystic fibrosis, non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis, immunocompromised and mechanically ventilated patients) and difficult-to-treat pathogens (including multidrug-resistant strains) has become a challenge in clinical practice. The arsenal of conventional antibiotic drugs can be limited by tissue penetration, toxicities, or increasing antibiotic resistance. Inhaled antimicrobials are an interesting therapeutic approach for optimizing the management of respiratory infections. Due to extensive developments in liposome technology, a number of inhaled liposome-based antibiotic and antifungal formulations are available for human use and many products are undergoing clinical trials. Liposomes are biocompatible, biodegradable, and nontoxic vesicles able to encapsulate and carry antimicrobials, enhancing the therapeutic index of various agents and retention at the desired target within the lung. Liposomes reduce drug toxicity and improve tolerability, leading to better compliance and to decreased respiratory side effects. The aim of this article was to provide an up-to-date overview of nebulized liposomal antimicrobials for lung infections (with a special focus on liposomal amikacin, tobramycin, ciprofloxacin, and amphotericin B for inhalation), discussing the feasibility and therapeutic potential of these new strategies of preventing and treating bacteria, mycobacterial and fungal infections.

Effect of Inspiratory Maneuvers on Lung Deposition of Tobramycin Inhalation Powder: A Modeling Study

Background: Tobramycin inhalation powder (TIP) and tobramycin inhalation solution (TIS) are considered equally effective for the treatment of chronic pulmonary Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. The impact of TIP inhalation maneuvers on distribution of tobramycin is unknown. We hypothesized that (1) fast TIP inhalations result in greater extrathoracic and reduced small airway concentrations compared with slow or uninstructed TIP inhalations; (2) slow TIP inhalations result in greater small airway concentrations than TIS inhalations. The aim of the study was to assess TIP and TIS deposition with computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Methods: Uninstructed, instructed fast, and instructed slow TIP inhalations of CF patients on maintenance TIP therapy, and inhalations during nebulization of saline with PARI LC Plus^® were recorded at home. Drug deposition was determined using TIP and TIS aerosol characteristics together with CFD simulations based on airway geometries from chest computed tomography scans. The drug concentration was assessed in extrathoracic, central, large, and small airways. Results: Twelve patients aged 12-45 years were included, and 144 CFD simulations were performed. In all individual analyses, the tobramycin concentrations were well above the threshold for effective dose of 10 times minimal inhibitory concentration throughout the bronchial tree. Extrathoracic concentrations were comparable between fast and uninstructed TIP inhalations, while slow inhalations resulted in reduced extrathoracic concentrations compared with uninstructed TIP inhalations (p = 0.024). Small airway concentrations were comparable between fast and uninstructed TIP inhalations, while slow TIP inhalations resulted in greater small airway concentrations than uninstructed TIP inhalations (p < 0.001). Small airway concentrations of TIS were comparable with those of slow TIP inhalations (p = 0.065), but greater than those of fast and uninstructed TIP inhalations (p < 0.001). Conclusion: All TIS and TIP inhalation maneuvers resulted in high enough concentrations, however, inhaling TIS or inhaling TIP slowly results in the greatest small airway deposition.

Neutrophil-targeted, protease-activated pulmonary drug delivery blocks airway and systemic inflammation

Pulmonary drug delivery presents a unique opportunity to target lower airway inflammation, which is often characterized by the massive recruitment of neutrophils from blood. However, specific therapies are lacking modulation of airway neutrophil function, and difficult challenges must be overcome to achieve therapeutic efficacy against pulmonary inflammation, notably drug hydrophobicity, mucociliary and macrophage-dependent clearance, and high extracellular protease burden. Here, we present a multistage, aerodynamically favorable delivery platform that uses extracellular proteolysis to its advantage to deliver nanoparticle-embedded hydrophobic drugs to neutrophils within the lower airways. Our design consists of a self-regulated nanoparticle-in-microgel system, in which microgel activation is triggered by extracellular elastase (degranulated by inflammatory neutrophils), and nanoparticles are loaded with Nexinhib20, a potent neutrophil degranulation inhibitor. Successful in vivo delivery of Nexinhib20 to the airways and into neutrophils promoted resolution of the inflammatory response by dampening neutrophil recruitment and degranulation, proinflammatory cytokine production in both airway and systemic compartments, as well as the presence of neutrophil-derived pathological extracellular vesicles in the lung fluid. Our findings showcase a new platform that overcomes challenges in pulmonary drug delivery and allows customization to match the proteolytic footprint of given diseases.

Comparison of Phospholipid-Based Particles for Sustained Release of Ciprofloxacin Following Pulmonary Administration to Bronchiectasis Patients

The rapid clearance of ciprofloxacin hydrochloride from the lungs following administration as an aerosol leads to poor efficacy in the treatment of pulmonary infections. The development of formulations capable of sustaining ciprofloxacin concentrations in the lungs has the potential to significantly improve antibacterial activity. The present review compares two approaches for sustaining levels of ciprofloxacin in the lungs, a liposomal formulation where ciprofloxacin is encapsulated in small unilamellar vesicles, and a dry powder formulation of the practically insoluble zwitterionic form of the drug. These two formulations recently completed large multicenter, phase 3 clinical studies in bronchiectasis patients. As such, they present a unique opportunity to examine the chemistry, manufacturing, and control of the dosage forms in addition to their tolerability and efficacy in more than 1000 bronchiectasis patients. Both formulations were generally well tolerated with most adverse events found to be mild to moderate in intensity. While the formulations were effective in reducing and/or eradicating infections, this did not lead to reductions in pulmonary exacerbations, the primary endpoint. The failures speak more to the heterogeneous nature of the disease and the difficulty in identifying bronchiectasis patients likely to exacerbate, rather than an inherent limitation of the formulations. While the formulations are similar in many respects, they also present some interesting differences. This review explores the implications of these differences on the treatment of respiratory infections.

Home videos of cystic fibrosis patients using tobramycin inhalation powder: Relation of flow and cough

BACKGROUND

Many cystic fibrosis (CF) patients chronically infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa are on maintenance tobramycin inhalation therapy. Cough is reported as a side effect of tobramycin inhalation powder (TIP) in 48% of the patients. Objectives of this study were to investigate the association between the inspiratory flow of TIP and cough and to study the inhalation technique. We hypothesized that cough is related to a fast inhalation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this prospective observational study, CF patients ≥ 6 years old on TIP maintenance therapy from four Dutch CF centers were visited twice at home. Video recordings were obtained and peak inspiratory flow (PIF) was recorded while patients inhaled TIP. Between the two home visits, the patients made three additional videos. CF questionnaire-revised, spirometry data, and computed tomography scan were collected. Two observers scored the videos for PIF, cough, and mistakes in inhalation technique. The associations between PIF and cough were analyzed using a logistic mixed-effects model accounting for FEV₁ % predicted and capsule number.

RESULTS

Twenty patients were included, median age 22 (18-28) years. No significant associations were found between PIF and cough. The risk of cough was highest after inhalation of the first capsule when compared to the second, third, and fourth capsule (P ≤ .015). Fourteen patients (70%) coughed at least once during TIP inhalation. A breath-hold of less than 5 seconds after inhalation and no deep expiration before inhalation were the most commonly observed mistakes.

CONCLUSION

PIF is not related to cough in CF patients using TIP.

Structural and functional alterations of the tracheobronchial tree after left upper pulmonary lobectomy for lung cancer

Background

Pulmonary lobectomy has been a well-established curative treatment method for localized lung cancer. After left upper pulmonary lobectomy, the upward displacement of remaining lower lobe causes the distortion or kink of bronchus, which is associated with intractable cough and breathless. However, the quantitative study on structural and functional alterations of the tracheobronchial tree after lobectomy has not been reported. We sought to investigate these alterations using CT imaging analysis and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method.

Methods

Both preoperative and postoperative CT images of 18 patients who underwent left upper pulmonary lobectomy are collected. After the tracheobronchial tree models are extracted, the angles between trachea and bronchi, the surface area and volume of the tree, and the cross-sectional area of left lower lobar bronchus are investigated. CFD method is further used to describe the airflow characteristics by the wall pressure, airflow velocity, lobar flow rate, etc.

Results

It is found that the angle between the trachea and the right main bronchus increases after operation, but the angle with the left main bronchus decreases. No significant alteration is observed for the surface area or volume of the tree between pre-operation and post-operation. After left upper pulmonary lobectomy, the cross-sectional area of left lower lobar bronchus is reduced for most of the patients (15/18) by 15–75%, especially for 4 patients by more than 50%. The wall pressure, airflow velocity and pressure drop significantly increase after the operation. The flow rate to the right lung increases significantly by 2–30% (but there is no significant difference between each lobe), and the flow rate to the left lung drops accordingly. Many vortices are found in various places with severe distortions.

Conclusions

The favorable and unfavorable adaptive alterations of tracheobronchial tree will occur after left upper pulmonary lobectomy, and these alterations can be clarified through CT imaging and CFD analysis. The severe distortions at left lower lobar bronchus might exacerbate postoperative shortness of breath.

Differences in Particle Deposition Between Members of Imaging-Based Asthma Clusters

Background: Four computed tomography (CT) imaging-based clusters have been identified in a study of the Severe Asthma Research Program (SARP) cohort and have been significantly correlated with clinical and demographic metrics (J Allergy Clin Immunol 2017; 140:690-700.e8). We used a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model to investigate air flow and aerosol deposition within imaging archetypes representative of the four clusters. Methods: CFD simulations for air flow and 1-8 μm particle transport were performed using CT-based airway models from two healthy subjects and eight asthma subjects. The subject selection criterion was based on the discriminant imaging-based flow-related variables of J(Total) (average local volume expansion in the total lung) and Dh*(sLLL) (normalized airway hydraulic diameter in the left lower lobe), where reduced J(Total) and Dh*(sLLL) indicate reduced regional ventilation and airway constriction, respectively. The analysis focused on the comparisons between all clusters with respect to healthy subjects, between cluster 2 and cluster 4 (nonsevere and severe asthma clusters with airway constriction) and between cluster 3 and cluster 4 (two severe asthma clusters characterized by normal and constricted airways, respectively). Results: Nonsevere asthma cluster 2 and severe asthma cluster 4 subjects characterized by airway constriction had an increase in the deposition fraction (DF) in the left lower lobe. Constricted flows impinged on distal bifurcations resulting in large depositions. Although both cluster 3 (without constriction) and cluster 4 (with constriction) were severe asthma, they exhibited different particle deposition patterns with increasing particle size. The statistical analysis showed that Dh*(sLLL) plays a more important role in particle deposition than J(Total), and regional flow fraction is correlated with DF among lobes for smaller particles. Conclusions: We demonstrated particle deposition characteristics associated with cluster-specific imaging-based metrics such as airway constriction, which could pertain to the design of future drug delivery improvements.

Applications of CRISPR systems in respiratory health: Entering a new 'red pen' era in genome editing

Respiratory diseases, such as influenza infection, acute tracheal bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, lung cancer and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, continue to significantly impact human health. Diseases of the lung and respiratory tract are influenced by environmental conditions and socio-economic factors; however, many of these serious respiratory disorders are also rooted in genetic or epigenetic causes. Clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and CRISPR-associated (Cas) proteins, isolated from the immune system of prokaryotes, provide a tool to manipulate gene sequences and gene expression with significant implications for respiratory research. CRISPR/Cas systems allow preclinical modelling of causal factors involved in many respiratory diseases, providing new insights into their underlying mechanisms. CRISPR can also be used to screen for genes involved in respiratory processes, development and pathology, identifying novel disease drivers or drug targets. Finally, CRISPR/Cas systems can potentially correct genetic mutations and edit epigenetic marks that contribute to respiratory disorders, providing a form of personalized medicine that could be used in conjunction with other technologies such as stem cell reprogramming and transplantation. CRISPR gene editing is a young field of research, and concerns regarding its specificity, as well as the need for efficient and safe delivery methods, need to be addressed further. However, CRISPR/Cas systems represent a significant step forward for research and therapy in respiratory health, and it is likely we will see the breakthroughs generated from this technology continue.

Use of computational fluid dynamics deposition modeling in respiratory drug delivery

INTRODUCTION

Respiratory drug delivery is a surprisingly complex process with a number of physical and biological challenges. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is a scientific simulation technique that is capable of providing spatially and temporally resolved predictions of many aspects related to respiratory drug delivery from initial aerosol formation through respiratory cellular drug absorption.

AREAS COVERED

This review article focuses on CFD-based deposition modeling applied to pharmaceutical aerosols. Areas covered include the development of new complete-airway CFD deposition models and the application of these models to develop a next-generation of respiratory drug delivery strategies.

EXPERT OPINION

Complete-airway deposition modeling is a valuable research tool that can improve our understanding of pharmaceutical aerosol delivery and is already supporting medical hypotheses, such as the expected under-treatment of the small airways in asthma. These complete-airway models are also being used to advance next-generation aerosol delivery strategies, like controlled condensational growth. We envision future applications of CFD deposition modeling to reduce the need for human subject testing in developing new devices and formulations, to help establish bioequivalence for the accelerated approval of generic inhalers, and to provide valuable new insights related to drug dissolution and clearance leading to microdosimetry maps of drug absorption.

Models of deposition, pharmacokinetics, and intersubject variability in respiratory drug delivery

INTRODUCTION

Aerosol drug delivery to the lungs via inhalation is widely used in the treatment of respiratory diseases. The deposition pattern of inhaled particles within the airways of the respiratory tract is key in determining the initial delivered dose. Thereafter, dose-dependent processes including drug release or dissolution, clearance, and absorption influence local and systemic exposure to inhaled drugs over time.

AREAS COVERED

Empirical correlations, numerical simulation, and in vitro airway geometries that permit improved prediction of extrathoracic and lung deposition fractions in a variety of age groups and breathing conditions are described. Efforts to link deposition models with pharmacokinetic models predicting lung and systemic exposure to inhaled drugs over time are then reviewed. Finally, new methods to predict intersubject variability in extrathoracic deposition, capturing variability in both size and shape of the upper airways, are highlighted.

EXPERT OPINION

Recent work has been done to expand in vitro deposition experiments to a wide range of age groups and breathing conditions, to link regional lung deposition models with pharmacokinetic models, and to improve prediction of intersubject variability. These efforts are improving predictive understanding of respiratory drug delivery, and will aid the development of new inhaled drugs and delivery devices.

Defining antimicrobial resistance in cystic fibrosis

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) can present significant challenges in the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF) lung infections. In CF and other chronic diseases, AMR has a different profile and clinical consequences compared to acute infections and this requires different diagnostic and treatment approaches. This review defines AMR, explains how it occurs, describes the methods used to measure AMR as well as their limitations, and concludes with future directions for research and development in the area of AMR in CF.

Particle Disposition in the Realistic Airway Tree Models of Subjects with Tracheal Bronchus and COPD

Dispositions of inhalable particles in the human respiratory tract trigger and exacerbate airway inflammatory diseases. However, the particle deposition (PD) in airway of subjects with tracheal bronchus (TB) and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) is unknown. We therefore propose to clarify the disrupted PD associated with TB and COPD using the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. Totally nine airway tree models are included. Six are extracted from CT images of different individuals (two with TB, two with COPD, and two healthy controls (HC)). The others are the artificially modified models (AMMs) generated by the virtual lesion. Specifically, they are constructed through artificially adding a tracheal bronchus or a stenosis on one HC model. The deposition efficiency (DE) and deposition fraction (DF) in these models are obtained by the Euler-Lagrange approach, analyzed, and compared across models, locations, and particle sizes (0.1-10.0 micrometers). It is found that the PD in models with TB and COPD has been disrupted by the geometrical changes and followed airflow alternations. DE of the tracheal bronchus is higher for TB models. For COPD, the stenosis location determines the effects on DE and DF. Higher DF at the trachea is observed in TB1, TB2, and COPD2 models. DE increases with the particle size, and DE of the terminal bronchi is higher than that of central regions. Combined with AMMs, the CFD simulation using realistic airway models demonstrates disruptions of DP. The methods and findings might help understand the etiology of pulmonary diseases and improve the efficacy of inhaled medicines.

Patient-specific modelling of regional tobramycin concentration levels in airways of patients with cystic fibrosis: can we dose once daily?

Background

Inhaled tobramycin is important in the treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) infections in cystic fibrosis (CF). However, despite its use it fails to attenuate the clinical progression of CF lung disease. The bactericidal efficacy of tobramycin is known to be concentration-dependent and hence changing the dosing regimen from a twice-daily (q12h) inhalation to a once-daily (q24h) inhaled double dose could improve treatment outcomes.

Objectives

To predict local concentrations of nebulized tobramycin in the airways of patients with CF, delivered with the small airway-targeting Akita® system or standard PARI-LC® Plus system, with different inspiratory flow profiles.

Methods

Computational fluid dynamic (CFD) methods were applied to patient-specific airway models reconstructed from chest CT scans. The following q12h and q24h dosing regimens were evaluated: Akita® (150 and 300 mg) and PARI-LC® Plus (300 and 600 mg). Site-specific concentrations were calculated.

Results

Twelve CT scans from patients aged 12-17 years (median = 15.7) were selected. Small airway concentrations were 762-2999 mg/L for the q12h dosing regimen and 1523-5997 mg/L for the q24h dosing regimen, well above the MIC for WT Pa strains. Importantly, the q24h regimen appeared to be more suitable than the q12h regimen against more resistant Pa strains and the inhibitory effects of sputum on tobramycin activity.

Conclusions

CFD modelling showed that high concentrations of inhaled tobramycin are indeed delivered to the airways, with the Akita® system being twice as efficient as the PARI-LC® system. Ultimately, the q24h dosing regimen appears more effective against subpopulations with high MICs (i.e. more resistant strains).

Airflow in Tracheobronchial Tree of Subjects with Tracheal Bronchus Simulated Using CT Image Based Models and CFD Method

Tracheal Bronchus (TB) is a rare congenital anomaly characterized by the presence of an abnormal bronchus originating from the trachea or main bronchi and directed toward the upper lobe. The airflow pattern in tracheobronchial trees of TB subjects is critical, but has not been systemically studied. This study proposes to simulate the airflow using CT image based models and the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method. Six TB subjects and three health controls (HC) are included. After the geometric model of tracheobronchial tree is extracted from CT images, the spatial distribution of velocity, wall pressure, wall shear stress (WSS) is obtained through CFD simulation, and the lobar distribution of air, flow pattern and global pressure drop are investigated. Compared with HC subjects, the main bronchus angle of TB subjects and the variation of volume are large, while the cross-sectional growth rate is small. High airflow velocity, wall pressure, and WSS are observed locally at the tracheal bronchus, but the global patterns of these measures are still similar to those of HC. The ratio of airflow into the tracheal bronchus accounts for 6.6-15.6% of the inhaled airflow, decreasing the ratio to the right upper lobe from 15.7-21.4% (HC) to 4.9-13.6%. The air into tracheal bronchus originates from the right dorsal near-wall region of the trachea. Tracheal bronchus does not change the global pressure drop which is dependent on multiple variables. Though the tracheobronchial trees of TB subjects present individualized features, several commonalities on the structural and airflow characteristics can be revealed. The observed local alternations might provide new insight into the reason of recurrent local infections, cough and acute respiratory distress related to TB.

Transient Dynamics Simulation of Airflow in a CT-Scanned Human Airway Tree: More or Fewer Terminal Bronchi?

Using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method, the feasibility of simulating transient airflow in a CT-based airway tree with more than 100 outlets for a whole respiratory period is studied, and the influence of truncations of terminal bronchi on CFD characteristics is investigated. After an airway model with 122 outlets is extracted from CT images, the transient airflow is simulated. Spatial and temporal variations of flow velocity, wall pressure, and wall shear stress are presented; the flow pattern and lobar distribution of air are gotten as well. All results are compared with those of a truncated model with 22 outlets. It is found that the flow pattern shows lobar heterogeneity that the near-wall air in the trachea is inhaled into the upper lobe while the center flow enters the other lobes, and the lobar distribution of air is significantly correlated with the outlet area ratio. The truncation decreases airflow to right and left upper lobes and increases the deviation of airflow distributions between inspiration and expiration. Simulating the transient airflow in an airway tree model with 122 bronchi using CFD is feasible. The model with more terminal bronchi decreases the difference between the lobar distributions at inspiration and at expiration.

Image-based computational fluid dynamics in the lung: virtual reality or new clinical practice?

The development and implementation of personalized medicine is paramount to improving the efficiency and efficacy of patient care. In the respiratory system, function is largely dictated by the choreographed movement of air and blood to the gas exchange surface. The passage of air begins in the upper airways, either via the mouth or nose, and terminates at the alveolar interface, while blood flows from the heart to the alveoli and back again. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is a well-established tool for predicting fluid flows and pressure distributions within complex systems. Traditionally CFD has been used to aid in the effective or improved design of a system or device; however, it has become increasingly exploited in biological and medical-based applications further broadening the scope of this computational technique. In this review, we discuss the advancement in application of CFD to the respiratory system and the contributions CFD is currently making toward improving precision medicine. The key areas CFD has been applied to in the pulmonary system are in predicting fluid transport and aerosol distribution within the airways. Here we focus our discussion on fluid flows and in particular on image-based clinically focused CFD in the ventilatory system. We discuss studies spanning from the paranasal sinuses through the conducting airways down to the level of the alveolar airways. The combination of imaging and CFD is enabling improved device design in aerosol transport, improved biomarkers of lung function in clinical trials, and improved predictions and assessment of surgical interventions in the nasal sinuses. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2017, 9:e1392. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.1392 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.

Diagnosis of bronchiectasis and airway wall thickening in children with cystic fibrosis: Objective airway-artery quantification

OBJECTIVES

To quantify airway and artery (AA)-dimensions in cystic fibrosis (CF) and control patients for objective CT diagnosis of bronchiectasis and airway wall thickness (AWT).

METHODS

Spirometer-guided inspiratory and expiratory CTs of 11 CF and 12 control patients were collected retrospectively. Airway pathways were annotated semi-automatically to reconstruct three-dimensional bronchial trees. All visible AA-pairs were measured perpendicular to the airway axis. Inner, outer and AWT (outer-inner) diameter were divided by the adjacent artery diameter to compute A_inA-, A_outA- and A_WTA-ratios. AA-ratios were predicted using mixed-effects models including disease status, lung volume, gender, height and age as covariates.

RESULTS

Demographics did not differ significantly between cohorts. Mean AA-pairs CF: 299 inspiratory; 82 expiratory.

CONTROLS

131 inspiratory; 58 expiratory. All ratios were significantly larger in inspiratory compared to expiratory CTs for both groups (p<0.001). A_outA- and A_WTA-ratios were larger in CF than in controls, independent of lung volume (p<0.01). Difference of A_outA- and A_WTA-ratios between patients with CF and controls increased significantly for every following airway generation (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Diagnosis of bronchiectasis is highly dependent on lung volume and more reliably diagnosed using outer airway diameter. Difference in bronchiectasis and AWT severity between the two cohorts increased with each airway generation.

KEY POINTS

• More peripheral airways are visible in CF patients compared to controls. • Structural lung changes in CF patients are greater with each airway generation. • Number of airways visualized on CT could quantify CF lung disease. • For objective airway disease quantification on CT, lung volume standardization is required.

Clinical implications of Pseudomonas aeruginosa location in the lungs of patients with cystic fibrosis

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the leading cause of lung infection in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Antibiotics are regarded as the foundational pharmacological treatment for the suppressive management of chronic P. aeruginosa infections and to eradicate the first infection by P. aeruginosa. Inhalation remains a preferred route for drug administration, providing direct access to the site of infection while minimizing systemic side effects. Effective suppressive management of P. aeruginosa infections, however, requires an understanding of the location of the bacteria in the lungs and consideration of the factors that could limit access of the inhaled antibiotic to the infected area. This review provides a systematic assessment of the scientific literature to gain insight into the location of P. aeruginosa in the lungs of patients with CF and its clinical implications. The characteristics of antibiotic inhalation systems are also discussed in this context.

METHODS

We reviewed evidence-based literature from both human and animal studies in which P. aeruginosa lung location was reported. Relevant publications were identified through a screening strategy and summarized by reported P. aeruginosa location.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Most areas of the conductive and respiratory zones of the lungs are susceptible to P. aeruginosa colonization. Deposition of an inhaled antibiotic is dependent on the device and formulation characteristics, as well as the ability of the patient to generate sufficient inhaled volume. As patients with CF often experience a decline in lung function, the challenge is to ensure that the inhaled antibiotic can be delivered throughout the bronchial tree.

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION

An effective drug delivery system that can target P. aeruginosa in both the respiratory and conductive zones is required. The chosen inhalation device should also offer a drug formulation that can be quickly and effectively delivered to specific lung locations, with minimal inspiratory effort from the patient.

Computational Models of Inhalation Therapy in Early Childhood: Therapeutic Aerosols in the Developing Acinus

BACKGROUND

Inhalation therapy targeted to the deep alveolated regions holds great promise, specifically in pediatric populations. Yet, inhalation devices and medical protocols are overwhelmingly derived from adult guidelines, with very low therapeutic efficiency in young children. During the first years of life, airway remodeling and changing ventilation patterns are anticipated to alter aerosol deposition with underachieving outcomes in infants. As past research is still overwhelmingly focused on adults or limited to models of upper airways, a fundamental understanding of inhaled therapeutic transport and deposition in the acinar regions is needed to shed light on delivering medication to the developing alveoli.

METHODS

Using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), we simulated inhalation maneuvers in anatomically-inspired models of developing acinar airways, covering the distinct phases of lung development, from underdeveloped, saccular pulmonary architectures in infants, to structural changes in toddlers, ultimately mimicking space-filling morphologies of a young child, representing scaled-down adult lungs. We model aerosols whose diameters span the range of sizes acknowledged to reach the alveolar regions and examine the coupling between morphological changes, varying ventilation patterns and particle characteristics on deposition outcomes.

RESULTS

Spatial distributions of deposited particles point to noticeable changes in the patterns of aerosol deposition with age, in particular in the youngest age group examined (3 month). Total deposition efficiency, as well as deposition dispersion, vary not only with the phases of lung development but also and critically with aerosol diameter.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the various challenges when prescribing inhalation therapy to a young infant, our findings underline some mechanistic aspects to consider when targeting medication to the developing alveoli. Not only does the intricate coupling between acinar morphology and ventilation patterns need to be considered, but the physical properties (i.e., aerodynamic size) of therapeutic aerosols also closely affect the anticipated success rates of the inhaled medication.