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A novel translational model for fetoscopic intratracheal delivery of nanoparticles in piglets
Author(s) -
Carlon Marianne S.,
Engels Alexander C.,
Bosch Barbara,
Joyeux Luc,
Mori da Cunha Marina G. M. C.,
Vidović Dragana,
Debyser Zeger,
De Boeck Kris,
Neyrinck Arne,
Deprest Jan A.
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
prenatal diagnosis
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.956
H-Index - 97
eISSN - 1097-0223
pISSN - 0197-3851
DOI - 10.1002/pd.4915
Subject(s) - hysterotomy , fetoscopy , lung , medicine , fetus , airway , x ray microtomography , fetal surgery , pathology , anesthesia , radiology , pregnancy , biology , in utero , prenatal diagnosis , genetics
Objectives The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of fetal tracheal injection in the late‐gestational pig to target the airways. Methods Following laparotomy and hysterotomy, fetoscopy was performed in pregnant sows to access the fetal trachea. Two volumes of fluospheres were injected (1 and 3 mL). Fluosphere distribution to the different lung lobes was investigated by microscopy. Possible fetal airway injury, caused by the surgical procedure or intratracheal injection, was investigated. Lung morphology and fetal lung volumes were calculated by micro computed tomography ( μ CT). Results Intratracheal administration was successfully performed in 20/21 fetuses. Analysis by confocal microscopy demonstrated that 3 mL, and not 1 mL, most efficiently targeted all lung lobes. On high‐resolution μ CT, total airway volume was estimated at 2.9 mL; strengthening that 3 mL is appropriate to target all lung lobes. No procedural damage was evidenced in the lungs or trachea. Conclusions Intratracheal injection of nanoparticles is feasible in the pregnant pig and does not cause procedural lung damage. Using an injection volume of 3 mL, all lung lobes were efficiently targeted. This nanoparticle delivery model to fetal airways opens perspectives for therapeutic interventions. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.