Design and validation of a simple device for insufflation of dry powders in a mice model

Abstract

Delivery of inhalational dry powders (DPs) to the lung of mice is pivotal for pre-clinical pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic investigations. Although several devices have been reported, their application is always limited by many factors, including complicated design, high price, commercially discontinued status, as well as requirement of special skills. Here, we have introduced a simple device for non-invasive and precise delivery of DPs in mice. We set up the self-made device using a 20 G cannula tube and a 1 mL syringe. Subsequently, it was validated in terms for proper installation, delivery of dry powder and safety. Taken together, we believe that this device will be helpful in pre-clinical studies, especially in laboratory experiments, for respiratory drug delivery in small animal models.