In the project AIRPROM ('Airway disease predicting outcomes through patient specific computational modelling'), which is funded with EU resources, researchers and industry experts in Europe have joined forces to deliver an innovative tool targeting the well-being of sufferers of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

In recent years, research for more advanced and targeted approaches to treatment has been strong, but more work is needed. Thus, the AIRPROM project, which is backed with €11.7 million under the 'Information and communication technologies' (ICT) Theme of the EU's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7), works in developing a computed model of the cells in an airway and a physical model of the airways, in order to evaluate how air flows through the lungs and why it becomes obstructed in asthma and COPD sufferers. Furthermore, AIRPROM is part of the VPH NOE ('Virtual physiological human network of excellence') project, which has clinched €8 million under FP7.

Coupled with existing data generated by computerised axial tomography (CT) scans and tests measuring lung capacity, these innovative models will give experts the help they need to test novel treatments, which could be developed into unique therapies for patients. According to the researchers, this information will be used to create an extensive database linking the characteristics of different pathways to a particular treatment in the future.

Asthma causes some 239,000 deaths in the world each year, and COPD is estimated to be the third leading cause of death worldwide by 2030. Experts cannot predict how the disease will progress and how patients will respond to current or future therapies and there only are existing treatment methods inadequate. The AIRPROM project will develop computed and physical models of the body's airways system, giving researchers and physicians the support they need to determine how treatments will affect patients. Treatments that are currently available help patients, but the methods used are not tailor-made for each individual. By not providing unique treatment methods, people may not be receiving the most effective treatment.