Turkish Scientists Pioneer New Way to Stop Fluid Build-Up Around the Lungs
Researchers from Inönü University and Malatya Turgut Özal University have developed an innovative treatment aimed at preventing the recurrence of pleural fluid accumulation, commonly known as pleural effusion, which can lead to lung collapse (pneumothorax) if left unaddressed. Animal trials for the method have already commenced, and the technique has been granted patent protection, Anadolu reports.¹
Professor Hakan Parlakpınar, Head of the Department of Medical Pharmacology at Inönü University Faculty of Medicine, explained that when fluid builds up excessively or recurrently in the pleural cavity—the space between the two membranes surrounding the lung—it must be drained. The accumulation and chronic nature of such fluid collection give rise to what is medically referred to as pneumothorax.
Traditionally, treatment modalities have included the instillation of chemical microparticle agents to encourage adhesion between the pleurae. This process, known as pleurodesis, is commonly performed using medical-grade talc. Such treatment aims to obliterate the space in which the fluid accumulates, by effectively gluing the pleural membranes together.
In collaboration with Professor Burhan Ateş and Dr Idil Karaca Açarı from Malatya Turgut Özal University, Parlakpınar and colleagues have spent approximately five years refining their method. Their approach centres on the application of a sterile talc preparation that not only adheres but also retains lubrication properties, thereby facilitating lung movement and function while preventing recurrent fluid build-up.
The research team has demonstrated promising results in rodent models, establishing dosages analogous to those intended for human use. Importantly, the modified talc formulation significantly reduced animal mortality compared to traditional models, suggesting a favourable safety profile.
Further efficacy was observed in studies conducted by Associate Professor Dr Onural Özhan, Director of the Experimental Animals Research and Production Centre, who reported minimal losses among the test subjects. Meanwhile, Dr Canbolat Gürses from the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics at the Faculty of Science and Letters noted that the modified talc exhibited antibacterial properties as early as five hours post-application.
With positive outcomes in preclinical stages, the researchers plan to advance to regulatory testing and pursue international patent protection. If successful, the method may be introduced into medical literature as a long-term, effective solution for recurrent pleural effusion and pneumothorax.
Source Acknowledgement
¹ Anadolu Agency, 27 January 2025: Turkish scientists develop method to prevent recurrence of pleural fluid accumulation.
