Lung diseases such as tuberculosis and cystic fibrosis remain challenging to treat. Traditional two-dimensional lab models fail to replicate the complex structure of human lungs, while animal models often respond differently to disease. To address this gap, researchers at the University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) and the College of Engineering are developing advanced three-dimensional lung tissue models.
“We have realized that we are lacking a realistic model for lung diseases, and that limits our ability to design better therapies,” explains Dr. Nuraina Dahlan of VIDO, who is leading the effort alongside Drs. Neeraj Dhar and Arinjay Banerjee (VIDO) and Dr. Daniel Chen (College of Engineering). A 3D model, Dahlan notes, can provide a more accurate environment for studying medicines and pathogens in the lab.
Lungs contain an intricate extracellular matrix that supports lung cells. Using the Canadian Light Source at USask, Dahlan’s team examined their 3D-printed models to understand the tissue’s structure and function without damaging samples. Created with specialized “bioinks” containing living cells, the printed models successfully supported human lung cell survival—indicating they can serve as a viable environment for cell growth. VIDO researchers cultivated the living cells, while engineering experts fabricated the printed structures.
The next phase involves exposing new 3D-printed lungs to infectious agents to study real-time responses. According to Dahlan, models that accurately mimic human lungs could transform how scientists study diseases and design treatments. This technology could enable patient-specific therapies, improve drug testing, and eventually allow researchers to grow lab-made lungs for transplantation.
“Ultimately, a realistic lung model gives us powerful tools for disease prevention and personalized treatment,” Dahlan concludes.
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