Novel inhalation therapy in pulmonary fibrosis: principles, applications and prospects

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Pharmacology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a progressive, irreversible lung disease affecting millions globally.
• While the exact cause of PF is unknown, therapeutic interventions at various stages are possible.
• Inhalation therapy, successful for asthma and COPD, is being explored for PF treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of novel inhalation therapies for pulmonary fibrosis.
• To analyze pharmacological, pharmaceutical, technical, preclinical, and clinical aspects of these treatments.
• To focus on methods that enhance existing technologies and expand inhaled drug options for PF.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on inhalation therapy for PF.
• Analysis of microparticle and nanoparticle delivery systems.
• Examination of gene therapy, signaling pathway modulators, and extracellular vesicle interventions.
• Assessment of factors influencing safety and efficacy, including particle properties, biological barriers, and device types.

Main Results:

• Various novel inhalation techniques, including nanoparticles, traditional Chinese medicine, gene therapy, and extracellular vesicles, show effectiveness in treating PF.
• Therapeutic success is contingent upon inhaled particle characteristics, biological barriers, and inhalation device design.
• The review synthesizes preclinical and clinical data on advanced inhalation strategies for PF.

Conclusions:

• Inhalation therapy offers significant advantages for treating pulmonary fibrosis despite existing limitations.
• Further research and innovation in inhalation techniques and drug development are crucial for advancing PF treatment.
• Novel approaches hold promise for improving therapeutic outcomes in patients with pulmonary fibrosis.