Experimental models of asbestos-related diseases

Abstract

Much of our understanding of the mechanisms by which asbestos injures the lung has been derived from experimental animal studies. Such studies have confirmed the fibrogenic and carcinogenic properties of asbestos fibers that have been surmised from human observations and have provided insights into the ways in which asbestos fibers interact with biological systems. Models commonly used to study asbestos-induced disease involve inhalation exposure to asbestos, intratracheal instillation, and in vitro studies of various cellular systems. Each of these techniques has particular advantages and disadvantages.