Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography Imaging of Selective Lobar Delivery of Stem Cells in Lung Model of Mechanical Ventilation.

The delivery of cell therapies may be an important frontier to treat different respiratory diseases in the near future. However, the cell size, delivery conditions, cell viability, and effect in the pulmonary function are critical factors. We performed a proof-of-concept experiment using lungs and novel subglottic airway device that allows for selective lobar isolation and administration of drugs and biologics in liquid solution deep into the lung tissues, while simultaneously ventilating the rest of the lung lobes.