(Huntsville, Ala. | July 23, 2021) – CFD Research was recently awarded a $400k research grant addressing the critical need for the development of computational tools to translate preclinical testing results from animals to humans for ophthalmic drug products. This project will provide researchers with a better understanding of the specific differences between animal and human eyes that result in differences in ocular drug distribution.
“Animal models are commonly used to evaluate bioequivalence based on drug distribution and pharmacodynamic effects,” Dr. Carrie German, CFD Research senior researcher and principal investigator for this project said. “Unfortunately, the protocol for translation of ophthalmic animal models to humans has proven elusive. This effort will focus on development of computational translational tools from rabbits to humans for the treatment of ocular health issues.”
Computational methods using physiologically-based modeling will aide in identifying major translational knowledge gaps and provide a platform for implementing and evaluating potential solutions. The project is expected to enhance public health by improving regulatory confidence, speed and efficiency in the approval process for new and generic ophthalmic drug products and decreasing costs to the public.
“We have made significant advances in modeling the eye through previous projects, and this grant will allow us to continue to expand our work and grow our collaboration with our key partner and a leader in the field, Dr. Arto Urtti from the University of Helsinki and University of Eastern Finland,” Dr. Andrzej Przekwas, CFD Research CTO said.
About CFD Research: Since its inception in 1987, CFD Research has worked with government agencies, businesses and academia to provide innovative solutions within the Aerospace & Defense, Biomedical & Life Sciences, and Energy & Materials industries. Over the years CFD Research has earned multiple national awards for successful application and commercialization of innovative technology prototypes, multi-physics simulation software, multi-disciplinary analyses, and expert support services. CFD Research’s impressive >70% three-year growth rate was high enough to recognize the company in the Inc. Magazine’s 5000 for the first time this year. CFD Research is an ISO9001 and AS9100 registered company and is appraised at CMMI Level II for services. Learn more at www.cfd-research.com.
This project is supported by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award [FAIN] totaling $399,863 with 100 percent funded by FDA]/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by FDA/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
