Scientists in the United States, including those of Indian origin, have successfully grown three-dimensional lungs in the lab, using stem cells. <br/><br/>Researchers said the laboratory-grown tissue can be used to study diseases including Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), which has been difficult to study using conventional methods.<br/><br/>The inability to model IPF in the laboratory earlier made it difficult to study the biology of the disease and design possible treatments.<br/><br/>Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic lung disease in which lungs become thick and stiff. Over time, this results in progressively worsening shortness of breath and lack of oxygen to the brain and vital organs. <br/><br/>Additionally, cigarette smoking and exposure to certain types of dust can increase the risk of developing the disease.