Excellence in research - numerical and experimental investigations of droplet deposition in nasal cavity from topical intranasal corticosteroid sprays among diverse groups

This National Science Foundation (NSF) Integrative Activities (CFDA 47.083) Project Grant awarded to Morgan State University for $867,163 provides funding for numerical and experimental investigations of drug deposition patterns from topical intranasal corticosteroid sprays in diverse populations. The research aims to improve the effectiveness of intranasal drug delivery by studying how nasal spray absorption varies across different ethnic backgrounds, genders, and ages. The project will employ particle image velocimetry testing, computational fluid dynamics modeling, and 3D printed nasal cavity models from CT scans to analyze drug deposition differences. A sub-award was made to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to support this research. The broader impacts include enhancing STEM education and research opportunities for underrepresented minority students. This project runs from May 2024 through April 2027.

Abstract

Intranasal sprays play a crucial role in treating allergies and sinus disease. Both conditions decrease quality of life and contribute to a substantial economic burden. Current intranasal sprays do not account for differences in nasal anatomy. We know that the shape of the noses changes as we age and is different between ethnicities; however, we do not know if these differences decrease the benefits of nasal sprays. The goal of this project is to investigate the differences in drug deposition from nasal sprays among diverse groups using experimental and computing models. By studying how nasal sprays are absorbed in individuals with diverse ethnic backgrounds, genders, and ages, this research seeks to improve nasal spray delivery. The broader impacts of this project include improving drug delivery methods for other nasal conditions, potential applications in nasal vaccine development, and fostering diversity in stem education and research by providing opportunities for underrepresented students. This project will employ particle image velocimetry (PIV) testing, subject-specific model development from CT scans, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling to investigate intranasal corticosteroid spray (INCS) deposition patterns in diverse nasal cavities. Through the integration of experimental measurements and computational simulations, the project aims to develop accurate prediction tools for INCS drug deposition with three research tasks: (I) PIV measurements of the flow field near the exit of the nozzle in the drug spray for the three most-widely used over the counter (OTC) INCS to serve as the initial condition for the CFD modeling; (II) CFD model development to investigate the drug deposition process in INCS; and (III) analysis of drug deposition difference among diverse groups using CFD model validated by measurements in 3D printed models reconstructed from CT scans. The successful completion of this research will not only provide insights into drug delivery mechanisms, but will also contribute to the development of more effective nasal drug delivery systems. Additionally, this project will enhance undergraduate and graduate stem education by integrating research findings into coursework and providing research opportunities for underrepresented students. Overall, this project has the potential to significantly impact both scientific knowledge and societal well-being by improving drug delivery methods and promoting diversity and inclusion in stem fields. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.- subawards are planned for this award.