By combining 3D bioprinting with the ability of stem cells to self-assemble — mimicking natural organ development — California-based biotech company Frontier Bio Corporation has created complex microscale lung tissue.
The company said in a news release that currently used methods involving animal testing often fail to accurately represent human biology, which can lead to high failure rates in human trials. The lab-grown tissue developed by Frontier Bio could offer a more accurate model for drug development for respiratory illnesses like COPD.
“There is an urgent need for more accurate models of lung tissue that allow us to test new therapeutics more effectively than with current methods,” said Victoria-Elisabeth Gruber, head of translational research at Frontier Bio.
The lung models are produced from a mixture of cells found in the lung including stem cells. They are then combined with a blend of biomaterials and processed using Frontier Bio’s bioprinting hardware to produce the tissue geometry. The company said it has developed methods to induce natural self-assembly process to drive the cells to organize into the complex microtissue architecture of the distal lung, including bronchioles and alveolar air sacs.
The lab-grown lung models also provide a possible platform for studying diseases like lung cancer, pulmonary fibrosis, COPD and COVID-19. The technology also offers a foundation for creating tissues and organs for transplantation. According to the American Lung Association, more than 35 million people suffer from chronic lung diseases in the U.S., and there is a great need for replacement lung tissue.
“This could fundamentally change the landscape of lung transplants, giving hope to thousands of patients waiting for lifesaving treatment,” said Eric Bennett, CEO of Frontier Bio.
Frontier Bio said it is actively seeking partnerships to advance the therapeutic and regenerative medicine applications of its technology.
