In Vitro Lung Model Market By Product Type (2D Model and 3D Model), By Application (Physiological Research, Drug Discovery & Toxicology Studies, 3D Model Development, and Others), By End-use (Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies, Academic Research Institutes, and Others), Region and Companies – Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends and Forecast 2024-2033

Report Overview

The In Vitro Lung Model Market size is expected to be worth around US$ 1588.6 million by 2033 from US$ 314 million in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 17.6% during the forecast period 2024 to 2033.

Increasing demand for advanced and reliable testing methods in drug development and toxicology is driving the growth of the in vitro lung model market. These models provide researchers with the ability to study respiratory diseases, drug responses, and the effects of environmental pollutants without relying on animal testing. In vitro lung models are crucial in applications such as evaluating the safety and efficacy of new drugs, assessing the toxicity of inhalable substances, and studying respiratory infections like COVID-19 and asthma.

As pharmaceutical companies and research institutions focus on improving drug discovery processes, in vitro lung models present opportunities for reducing time and costs associated with traditional testing methods. For instance, in October 2023, two scientists behind a 3D human lung model designed to assess the safety of new drugs secured US$ 2.5 million in funding to expand their operations.

This funding aims to enhance their laboratory facilities and meet growing demand for these innovative models. Recent trends also include the integration of advanced technologies like organ-on-a-chip systems and the development of more complex, human-like lung models, offering greater accuracy in replicating human lung physiology. These innovations open new opportunities for personalized medicine, where patient-specific lung models could guide more effective treatments for respiratory diseases.

Key Takeaways

• In 2023, the market for In Vitro Lung Model generated a revenue of US$ 314 million, with a CAGR of 17.6%, and is expected to reach US$ 1588.6 million by the year 2033.
• The product type segment is divided into 2D model and 3D model, with 2D model taking the lead in 2023 with a market share of 56.7%.
• Considering application, the market is divided into physiological research, drug discovery & toxicology studies, 3d model development, and others. Among these, drug discovery & toxicology studies held a significant share of 50.9%.
• Furthermore, concerning the end-use segment, the market is segregated into pharmaceutical & biotechnology companies, academic research institutes, and others. The pharmaceutical & biotechnology companies sector stands out as the dominant player, holding the largest revenue share of 62.3% in the In Vitro Lung Model market.
• North America led the market by securing a market share of 38.6% in 2023.

Product Type Analysis

The 2D model segment led in 2023, claiming a market share of 56.7% owing to its cost-effectiveness and simplicity in design. These models, which replicate the structure of lung cells on a flat surface, are projected to be increasingly used in research for drug screening, toxicity testing, and disease modeling. 2D models are anticipated to remain the preferred choice in early-stage research, primarily because of their ease of use, faster results, and lower operational costs compared to 3D models.

The increasing demand for high-throughput screening methods in pharmaceutical testing is likely to drive further adoption of 2D models. Additionally, the simplicity and flexibility of 2D models in creating standardized experimental conditions are expected to support their continued use. As researchers continue to seek reliable, reproducible data with fewer variables, the 2D segment is projected to see consistent growth, particularly in laboratories and small-scale research settings.

Application Analysis

The drug discovery & toxicology studies held a significant share of 50.9% as pharmaceutical companies intensify their focus on developing safer and more effective drugs. The use of lung models in these studies is projected to expand as regulators and researchers emphasize the need for more accurate preclinical testing to predict drug efficacy and toxicity.

In drug discovery, the ability to simulate the human lung environment with in vitro models will likely help accelerate the development of new treatments, particularly for lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer. The rising trend of personalized medicine, combined with the increasing prevalence of respiratory diseases, is expected to further drive the demand for lung models in toxicology studies.

These models provide insights into how drugs interact with lung tissues, reducing the need for animal testing and offering more reliable results for clinical trials.

End-use Analysis

The pharmaceutical and biotechnology sector saw significant growth, capturing a 62.3% revenue share due to substantial investments in drug development and testing innovations. The increasing complexity of drug formulations and the rising demand for targeted therapies are driving the adoption of in vitro lung models. These models are crucial for simulating lung diseases and assessing drug effects on lung tissues, enhancing the success rates of clinical trials.

There is a growing focus on reducing animal testing and increasing the accuracy of preclinical data. As a result, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies are integrating in vitro lung models into their research and development processes. This integration supports more refined preclinical analyses and helps in developing more effective drugs.

Regulatory demands for detailed respiratory drug testing are rising. In response, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies are expanding their use of in vitro lung models. This expansion helps them comply with regulatory standards and improves their product pipelines. As regulations tighten, the reliance on these models is expected to increase, facilitating better drug development outcomes.

Key Market Segments

By Product Type

• 2D Model
• 3D Model

By Application

• Physiological Research
• Drug Discovery & Toxicology Studies
• 3D Model Development
• Others

By End-use

• Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies
• Academic Research Institutes
• Others

Drivers

Increase In R&D Activities Is Driving The In Vitro Lung Model Market

Growing research and development activities significantly drive the in vitro lung model market by fostering innovation and the creation of advanced models for respiratory disease studies. In August 2024, the Infectious Diseases Therapeutic Research Center at the Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT) collaborated with the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) to develop artificial lungs.

These prosthetic lungs support research on respiratory infections and drug testing, including studies related to COVID-19. This collaboration highlights the increasing investment in developing more accurate and functional lung models that mimic human physiology, enhancing the reliability of experimental outcomes. R&D initiatives focus on integrating biomaterials and tissue engineering techniques to create models that replicate the complex interactions within human lungs.

Additionally, the rise in chronic respiratory diseases and the need for personalized medicine drive the demand for sophisticated in vitro lung models. These models enable researchers to conduct high-throughput screening of pharmaceuticals, assess toxicological effects, and understand disease mechanisms more effectively. Furthermore, advancements in 3D bioprinting and microfluidics contribute to the development of more precise and scalable lung models.

The continuous push for innovation through R&D activities is anticipated to expand the capabilities and applications of in vitro lung models, thereby propelling market growth. Enhanced funding from government and private sectors supports these efforts, ensuring that the market remains dynamic and responsive to emerging healthcare challenges.

Restraints

High Complexity Of Technology Is Restraining The In Vitro Lung Model Market

A significant restraint in the in vitro lung model market is the high complexity of technology involved in developing and utilizing these models. Creating accurate and functional lung models requires advanced expertise in tissue engineering, biomaterials, and microfabrication techniques, which can be a barrier for many research institutions and companies.

The sophisticated nature of these models necessitates specialized equipment and highly skilled personnel, leading to increased operational costs and longer development timelines. Additionally, the integration of multiple biological and mechanical components to mimic the human lung’s environment presents technical challenges that can hinder widespread adoption.

Maintaining consistency and reproducibility in experimental results also requires meticulous calibration and standardization of the models, further complicating their use. Smaller organizations may struggle to afford the necessary investments in technology and training, limiting their participation in the market. Moreover, the rapid pace of technological advancements means that existing models can quickly become outdated, requiring continuous upgrades and innovations.

This constant need for improvement not only raises costs but also poses a risk of intellectual property challenges and competitive pressures. As a result, the high complexity associated with in vitro lung models restrains market growth by limiting accessibility and increasing the barriers to entry for new players.

Opportunities

Integration Of Ai And Ml

Increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) creates substantial opportunities for the in vitro lung model market by enhancing the precision and efficiency of experimental processes. In October 2023, Molecular Devices, LLC unveiled the patent-pending CellXpress.ai Automated Cell Culture System.

This machine learning-enabled solution automates complex feeding and passaging tasks, integrating a liquid handler, incubator, and imager to provide scientists with greater efficiency and autonomy in the laboratory. The incorporation of AI and ML technologies allows for real-time data analysis and predictive modeling, enabling researchers to optimize cell culture conditions and improve the accuracy of lung model simulations.

AI-driven platforms can analyze vast amounts of experimental data to identify patterns and correlations that might be missed by traditional methods, leading to more informed decision-making and faster discovery cycles. Furthermore, ML algorithms can enhance the customization of lung models, tailoring them to specific research needs and patient profiles, thereby supporting personalized medicine initiatives.

The ability to automate routine tasks reduces the workload on laboratory personnel, allowing them to focus on more complex and innovative aspects of research. Additionally, AI and ML facilitate the integration of multiple data sources, providing a comprehensive understanding of lung physiology and disease mechanisms.

This technological synergy is likely to accelerate the development of more sophisticated and reliable in vitro lung models, driving market expansion. As the demand for high-throughput and high-precision research tools grows, the integration of AI and ML is projected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the in vitro lung model market, fostering advancements that improve healthcare outcomes.

Impact of Macroeconomic / Geopolitical Factors

Macroeconomic and geopolitical factors significantly influence the in vitro lung model market. On the positive side, growing investments in healthcare and biotechnology, driven by the global focus on precision medicine, boost the demand for advanced research tools, including lung models. The increasing prevalence of respiratory diseases and the need for better drug testing methods further support market growth.

However, economic downturns may hinder investment in research and development, especially in resource-constrained regions. Geopolitical tensions and trade barriers could disrupt the supply chain for critical materials used in creating lung models, raising costs. Regulatory complexities and changes in healthcare policies across different regions add another layer of uncertainty. Despite these challenges, the market is expected to thrive due to ongoing innovations in cellular models and advancements in drug testing, making in vitro systems more reliable and cost-effective.

Trends

Surge in Partnerships and Collaborations Driving the In Vitro Lung Model Market

Growing partnerships and collaborations play a crucial role in expanding the in vitro lung model market. High levels of cooperation between biotechnology companies, research institutes, and academic organizations are likely to accelerate technological advancements and improve model accuracy. In December 2021, Agilent Technologies and Lonza Group AG entered into a strategic partnership to integrate cutting-edge technologies with Lonza’s Cocoon Platform.

This collaboration is anticipated to enhance patient-scale cell therapy manufacturing by incorporating both existing and new analytical methods into the platform’s workflows. As the demand for more accurate and scalable lung models rises, such strategic alliances are expected to drive the market forward by introducing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of researchers and healthcare providers.

Regional Analysis

North America is leading the In Vitro Lung Model Market

North America dominated the market with the highest revenue share of 38.6% owing to advancements in biomedical research and the increasing demand for accurate preclinical testing models. Researchers in the region have increasingly turned to in vitro models for studying respiratory diseases, including asthma, COPD, and lung cancer, as these models offer more relevant and cost-effective alternatives to animal testing.

The growing emphasis on personalized medicine and precision therapies has also spurred the adoption of in vitro lung models, as they enable more accurate prediction of individual responses to treatments. The launch of SEED Biosciences’ Dispen3D in July 2024, designed for the gentle and traceable dispensing of single spheroid/organoid cells, highlights the region’s commitment to advancing research tools.

The platform supports the creation of more sophisticated lung models, accelerating research in precision medicine. Additionally, the region’s robust healthcare infrastructure, coupled with increased funding for research into lung diseases, has contributed to the growing demand for these innovative models. This trend is expected to continue, with in vitro lung models playing a crucial role in drug discovery and disease research in North America.

The Asia Pacific region is expected to experience the highest CAGR during the forecast period

Asia Pacific is expected to grow with the fastest CAGR owing to the increasing incidence of respiratory diseases and cancer, coupled with advancements in research and technology. In 2022, China reported the highest number of lung cancer cases globally, while Japan and India ranked third and fourth, respectively, according to the World Cancer Research Fund International.

This growing burden of lung diseases is anticipated to accelerate demand for more effective and efficient preclinical models, such as in vitro lung models, for research and drug development. The increasing focus on reducing the reliance on animal testing and improving the accuracy of research outcomes is likely to drive the adoption of in vitro models in the region.

Furthermore, the expanding biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries in countries like China and India are projected to fuel the growth of the market, as these industries invest in advanced technologies for drug discovery and personalized treatments. With governments prioritizing healthcare and research advancements, the market for in vitro lung models is likely to see robust growth in Asia Pacific.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Russia
  • Netherland
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • Singapore
  • Thailand
  • Vietnam
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

Key players in the in vitro lung model market adopt strategies such as investing in 3D cell culture technologies and advanced biomaterials to enhance model accuracy and functionality. Companies collaborate with pharmaceutical firms and academic institutions to drive research on respiratory diseases and drug development.

Expanding their product offerings with customizable solutions helps address diverse client needs, including toxicology studies and drug screening. Strong focus on regulatory compliance and obtaining certifications ensures their models meet industry standards. Additionally, targeting emerging markets with increasing investment in biotechnology and healthcare innovation accelerates growth.

Epithelix is a key player in the in vitro lung model market, specializing in human tissue-based solutions for respiratory research. The company offers products like the MucilAir™ and SmallAir™, which replicate human airway and alveolar environments. Epithelix emphasizes innovation and quality, catering to pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries globally, while maintaining a strong commitment to ethical research practices.

Top Key Players in the In Vitro Lung Model Market

• POSTECH
• Nortis
• MIMETAS
• ImmuONE
• BICO
• Epithelix
• ATTC Global
• AlveoliX AG

Recent Developments

• In November 2023: ImmuONE raised an additional USD 2.48 million to further develop its lung model as a viable alternative to animal testing in drug research. This funding is anticipated to significantly boost the company’s customer base.
• In September 2021: BICO subsidiaries MatTek, CELLINK, and Visikol launched a collaborative initiative to establish a CRO offering advanced bioprinting services, marking a significant development in the industry.

Report Scope