A University of Melbourne startup company has developed next generation drug delivery technology to improve the efficacy of inhaled lung therapies.
The technology has broad applications and is designed to help aerosolise medicine as an improvement on traditional nebulizers and spacers used to treat asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and cystic fibrosis, making it easier to reach the lungs more reliably.
Incorrect inhaler technique increases the risk of patient hospitalisation.
Australian research studies have shown up to 90 percent of asthma patients misuse their inhalers.
University of Melbourne startup company 'Misti' has developed advanced aerosol technology that can deliver an inhaler drug to the precise area within the lung the medication needs to target.
Mesh nebulizers are commonly used to treat respiratory conditions like asthma and cystic fibrosis, and they work by converting liquid medication into a fine breathable mist by forcing the liquid through a vibrating perforated plate.
Mesh-based systems can create known limitations when drug flow is restricted due to clogging.
The drug particle size dictates how deep into the lung the medication penetrates, however conventional mesh nebulizers don't allow for customisable particle sizing, whereas Misti does.
Misti Founder and CEO Dr Anushi Rajapaksa said: "Misti channels acoustic energy and adjusts soundwaves toreduce drug particles to the specific size needed to suit an individual patient's treatment needs."
"Misti could also be used as a simpler alternative to intravenous antibiotics for some non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis patients."
Dr Rajapaksa said the technology will be particularly beneficial for chronic respiratory patients with neurodevelopmental disorders. The breath activated, hands free technology offers a quieter, more sensory friendly treatment option to the current treatment options. It's easy to appreciate why this would be a preferable alternative for example for children with co-existing asthma and autism.
"In contrast, MedMisti delivers therapy through an advanced smart inhaler that produces near‑silent, gentle aerosolization, supporting broader range medication compatibility including biologics stability and a calmer treatment experience. "
"Current standard of care can overwhelm children, and lead to distress and treatment refusal."
"As the technology is breath triggered, all the child has to do is just breathe as normal, making the process far simpler."
The device will be linked to a smart app, allowing the patient's doctor to monitor the dosage remotely, ensuring the prescribed medication has been administered fully.
"The app is expected to be engaging and interactive to make the therapeutic experience less stressful for patients with ASD by providing a fun and engaging distraction," said Dr Rajapaksa.
The team recently secured a total of $6.3 million in funding from the University of Melbourne's Genesis Pre-Seed Fund, as well as other large institutional investors including Boson Ventures, Startmate, Innovation Victoria and private investors and the Australian Government's Industry Growth Program.
University of Melbourne Genesis Pre-Seed Fund CEO Hun Gan said: "Misti is a prime example of world-class science being turned into innovative technology that meets real, unmet clinical needs."
"By bringing hospital-grade care into the home, Misti takes the guesswork out of self-administered treatment, giving chronic respiratory patients and their caregivers greater confidence that the full dose has been delivered."
Clinical studies are expected to commence in 2027, contact Misti for more information.
