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Models and Methods to Evaluate Transport of Drug Delivery Systems Across Cellular Barriers
Published on: October 17, 2013
Accelerating Subcutaneous Drug Development: A Mechanistic Absorption Model for the Open Systems Pharmacology
Moriah Pellowe1, Ilse Dubbelboer2, Erik Sjögren1,2
1Pharmetheus, Uppsala, Sweden.
CPT: Pharmacometrics & Systems Pharmacology
|June 25, 2026
Summary
A new mechanistic subcutaneous (SC) injection model was developed for the Open Systems Pharmacology platform. This tool aids in understanding and predicting drug absorption for both small molecules and biologics.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
- Computational Biology
- Drug Development
Background:
- Subcutaneous (SC) drug administration is increasingly popular, necessitating advanced tools for absorption analysis.
- Understanding the complex interplay of molecular, formulation, and physiological factors is crucial for predicting SC drug absorption.
- Existing models may lack the generalizability required for diverse drug types and species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement a mechanistic SC injection model within the Open Systems Pharmacology platform.
- To provide a structural basis for simulating SC drug absorption, integrating molecular properties and disposition characteristics.
- To ensure generalizability and translational application for both small molecules and biologics.
Main Methods:
- Developed a mechanistic SC model using the PK-Sim structure and parameterization.
- Integrated the SC model into a whole-body physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model.
- Performed input-response analysis and case studies to demonstrate model functionality.
Main Results:
- Successfully implemented a generic SC model framework adaptable to various drugs and species.
- Demonstrated model responsiveness and potential applications in drug development through case examples.
- Established a foundation for simulating complex injection and formulation effects.
Conclusions:
- The developed mechanistic SC model provides a robust framework for simulating drug absorption.
- This tool supports informed evaluation of SC drug candidates across preclinical and clinical stages.
- The model facilitates further development for enhanced prediction of SC drug delivery.
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