Assessment of cytotoxicity and mechanistic insights from a combination of three independent anatomical regions within the respiratory tract using in vitro 3D human models following exposure to 1R6F Kentucky reference cigarettes

CORESTA PSPT Conference 2025 -- New approach methodologies (NAMs) are being implemented for inhalation toxicity to deliver improved safety assessment and hazard identification. In vitro human 3D models are a relevant method for analysis of toxicity and modelling downstream effects such as inflammation. These models are therefore commensurate with the principles of the 3Rs. This study utilized models from Epithelix Sarl (Switzerland) and included MucilAir™, SmallAir™ and AlveolAir™ in assessing their response to whole smoke from 1R6F Kentucky Reference Cigarettes. This study covered the response from the upper airway, lower epithelium (bronchiolar region) and the alveolus epithelium cultured at the air liquid interface (ALI), covering the main anatomical regions of the lung.