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Li H, Anjani QK, Hutton ARJ, Paris JL, Moreno-Castellanos N, Himawan A, Larrañeta E, Donnelly RF. Design of a Novel Delivery Efficiency Feedback System for Biphasic Dissolving Microarray Patches Based on Poly(Lactic Acid) and Moisture-Indicating Silica. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2304082. [PMID: 38471772 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202304082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Dissolving microarray patches (DMAPs) represent an innovative approach to minimally invasive transdermal drug delivery, demonstrating efficacy in delivering both small and large therapeutic molecules. However, concerns raised in end-user surveys have hindered their commercialization efforts. One prevalent issue highlighted in these surveys is the lack of clear indicators for successful patch insertion and removal time. To address this challenge, a color-change-based feedback system is devised, which confirms the insertion and dissolution of DMAPs, aiming to mitigate the aforementioned problems. The approach combines hydrophilic needles containing model drugs (fluorescein sodium and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-dextran) with a hydrophobic poly(lactic acid) baseplate infused with moisture-sensitive silica gel particles. The successful insertion and subsequent complete dissolution of the needle shaft are indicated by the progressive color change of crystal violet encapsulated in the silica. Notably, distinct color alterations on the baseplate, observed 30 min and 1 h after insertion for FITC-dextran and fluorescein sodium DMAPs respectively, signal the full dissolution of the needles, confirming the complete cargo delivery and enabling timely patch removal. This innovative feedback system offers a practical solution for addressing end-user concerns and may significantly contribute to the successful commercialization of DMAPs by providing a visualized drug delivery method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanhuan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | | | - Aaron R J Hutton
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Juan Luis Paris
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA Plataforma BIONAND, Málaga, 29590, Spain
| | - Natalia Moreno-Castellanos
- Basic Science Department, Faculty of Health, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Bucaramanga, 680001, Colombia
| | - Achmad Himawan
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Hasanuddin, Makassar, 90245, Indonesia
| | - Eneko Larrañeta
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Ryan F Donnelly
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
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2
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Omidian H, Dey Chowdhury S. Swellable Microneedles in Drug Delivery and Diagnostics. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:791. [PMID: 38931458 PMCID: PMC11206711 DOI: 10.3390/ph17060791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This manuscript explores the transformative potential of swellable microneedles (MNs) in drug delivery and diagnostics, addressing critical needs in medical treatment and monitoring. Innovations in hydrogel-integrated MN arrays facilitate controlled drug release, thereby expanding treatment options for chronic diseases and conditions that require precise dosage control. The review covers challenges, such as scalability, patient compliance, and manufacturing processes, as well as achievements in advanced manufacturing, biocompatibility, and versatile applications. Nonetheless, limitations in physiological responsiveness and long-term stability remain, necessitating further research in material innovation and integration with digital technologies. Future directions focus on expanding biomedical applications, material advancements, and regulatory considerations for widespread clinical adoption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Omidian
- Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA;
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3
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Li Y, Vora LK, Wang J, Sabri AHB, Graham A, McCarthy HO, Donnelly RF. Poly(acrylic acid)/Poly(vinyl alcohol) Microarray Patches for Continuous Transdermal Delivery of Levodopa and Carbidopa: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:676. [PMID: 38794339 PMCID: PMC11125810 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16050676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Levodopa (LD) has been the most efficacious medication and the gold standard therapy for Parkinson's disease (PD) for decades. However, its long-term administration is usually associated with motor complications, which are believed to be the result of the fluctuating pharmacokinetics of LD following oral administration. Duodopa® is the current option to offer a continuous delivery of LD and its decarboxylase inhibitor carbidopa (CD); however, its administration involves invasive surgical procedures, which could potentially lead to lifelong complications, such as infection. Recently, dissolving microarray patches (MAPs) have come to the fore as an alternative that can bypass the oral administration route in a minimally invasive way. This work explored the potential of using dissolving MAPs to deliver LD and CD across the skin. An acidic polymer poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) was used in the MAP fabrication to prevent the potential oxidation of LD at neutral pH. The drug contents of LD and CD in the formulated dissolving MAPs were 1.82 ± 0.24 and 0.47 ± 0.04 mg/patch, respectively. The in vivo pharmacokinetic study using female Sprague-Dawley® rats (Envigo RMS Holding Corp, Bicester, UK) demonstrated a simultaneous delivery of LD and CD and comparable AUC values between the dissolving MAPs and the oral LD/CD suspension. The relative bioavailability for the dissolving MAPs was calculated to be approximately 37.22%. Accordingly, this work highlights the use of dissolving MAPs as a minimally invasive approach which could potentially bypass the gastrointestinal pathway and deliver both drugs continuously without surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ryan F. Donnelly
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (Y.L.); (L.K.V.); (J.W.); (A.H.B.S.); (A.G.); (H.O.M.)
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4
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McGuckin MB, Hutton AR, Davis ER, Sabri AH, Ripolin A, Himawan A, Naser YA, Ghanma R, Greer B, McCarthy HO, Paredes AJ, Larrañeta E, Donnelly RF. Transdermal Delivery of Pramipexole Using Microneedle Technology for the Potential Treatment of Parkinson's Disease. Mol Pharm 2024; 21:2512-2533. [PMID: 38602861 PMCID: PMC11080471 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.4c00065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disease primarily impacting neurons responsible for dopamine production within the brain. Pramipexole (PRA) is a dopamine agonist that is currently available in tablet form. However, individuals with PD commonly encounter difficulties with swallowing and gastrointestinal motility, making oral formulations less preferable. Microneedle (MN) patches represent innovative transdermal drug delivery devices capable of enhancing skin permeability through the creation of microconduits on the surface of the skin. MNs effectively reduce the barrier function of skin and facilitate the permeation of drugs. The work described here focuses on the development of polymeric MN systems designed to enhance the transdermal delivery of PRA. PRA was formulated into both dissolving MNs (DMNs) and directly compressed tablets (DCTs) to be used in conjunction with hydrogel-forming MNs (HFMNs). In vivo investigations using a Sprague-Dawley rat model examined, for the first time, if it was beneficial to prolong the application of DMNs and HFMNs beyond 24 h. Half of the patches in the MN cohorts were left in place for 24 h, whereas the other half remained in place for 5 days. Throughout the entire 5 day study, PRA plasma levels were monitored for all cohorts. This study confirmed the successful delivery of PRA from DMNs (Cmax = 511.00 ± 277.24 ng/mL, Tmax = 4 h) and HFMNs (Cmax = 328.30 ± 98.04 ng/mL, Tmax = 24 h). Notably, both types of MNs achieved sustained PRA plasma levels over a 5 day period. In contrast, following oral administration, PRA remained detectable in plasma for only 48 h, achieving a Cmax of 159.32 ± 113.43 ng/mL at 2 h. The HFMN that remained in place for 5 days demonstrated the most promising performance among all investigated formulations. Although in the early stages of development, the findings reported here offer a hopeful alternative to orally administered PRA. The sustained plasma profile observed here has the potential to reduce the frequency of PRA administration, potentially enhancing patient compliance and ultimately improving their quality of life. This work provides substantial evidence advocating the development of polymeric MN-mediated drug delivery systems to include sustained plasma levels of hydrophilic pharmaceuticals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary B. McGuckin
- School
of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Aaron R.J. Hutton
- School
of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Ellie R. Davis
- School
of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Akmal H.B. Sabri
- School
of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Anastasia Ripolin
- School
of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Achmad Himawan
- School
of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Yara A. Naser
- School
of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Rand Ghanma
- School
of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Brett Greer
- Institute
for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, United Kingdom
- The International
Joint Research Centre on Food Security (IJC-FOODSEC), 113 Thailand Science Park, Pahonyothin
Road, Khong Luang ,Pathum
Thani12120, Thailand
| | - Helen O. McCarthy
- School
of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Alejandro J. Paredes
- School
of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Eneko Larrañeta
- School
of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Ryan F. Donnelly
- School
of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
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5
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Yu X, Zhao J, Fan D. The Progress in the Application of Dissolving Microneedles in Biomedicine. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:4059. [PMID: 37896303 PMCID: PMC10609950 DOI: 10.3390/polym15204059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, microneedle technology has been widely used for the transdermal delivery of substances, showing improvements in drug delivery effects with the advantages of minimally invasive, painless, and convenient operation. With the development of nano- and electrochemical technology, different types of microneedles are increasingly being used in other biomedical fields. Recent research progress shows that dissolving microneedles have achieved remarkable results in the fields of dermatological treatment, disease diagnosis and monitoring, and vaccine delivery, and they have a wide range of application prospects in various biomedical fields, showing their great potential as a form of clinical treatment. This review mainly focuses on dissolving microneedles, summarizing the latest research progress in various biomedical fields, providing inspiration for the subsequent intelligent and commercial development of dissolving microneedles, and providing better solutions for clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueqing Yu
- Engineering Research Center of Western Resource Innovation Medicine Green Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials and Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
- Biotech & Biomed Research Institute, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Engineering Research Center of Western Resource Innovation Medicine Green Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials and Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
- Biotech & Biomed Research Institute, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
| | - Daidi Fan
- Engineering Research Center of Western Resource Innovation Medicine Green Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Degradable Biomedical Materials and Shaanxi R&D Center of Biomaterials and Fermentation Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
- Biotech & Biomed Research Institute, Northwest University, Xi’an 710069, China
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6
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Berger MN, Mowbray ES, Farag MWA, Mathieu E, Davies C, Thomas C, Booy R, Forster AH, Skinner SR. Immunogenicity, safety, usability and acceptability of microarray patches for vaccination: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e012247. [PMID: 37827725 PMCID: PMC10583062 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-012247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microarray patches (MAPs) deliver vaccines to the epidermis and the upper dermis, where abundant immune cells reside. There are several potential benefits to using MAPs, including reduced sharps risk, thermostability, no need for reconstitution, tolerability and self-administration. We aimed to explore and evaluate the immunogenicity, safety, usability and acceptability of MAPs for vaccination. METHODS We searched CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Ovid Embase, Ovid MEDLINE and Web of Science from inception to January 2023. Eligibility criteria included all research studies in any language, which examined microarrays or microneedles intended or used for vaccination and explored immunogenicity, safety, usability or acceptability in their findings. Two reviewers conducted title and abstract screening, full-text reviewing and data extraction. RESULTS Twenty-two studies were included (quantitative=15, qualitative=2 and mixed methods=5). The risk of bias was mostly low, with two studies at high risk of bias. Four clinical trials were included, three using influenza antigens and one with Japanese encephalitis delivered by MAP. A meta-analysis indicated similar or higher immunogenicity in influenza MAPs compared with needle and syringe (N&S) (standardised mean difference=10.80, 95% CI: 3.51 to 18.08, p<0.00001). There were no significant differences in immune cell function between MAPs and N&S. No serious adverse events were reported in MAPs. Erythema was more common after MAP application than N&S but was brief and well tolerated. Lower pain scores were usually reported after MAP application than N&S. Most studies found MAPs easy to use and highly acceptable among healthcare professionals, laypeople and parents. CONCLUSION MAPs for vaccination were safe and well tolerated and evoked similar or enhanced immunogenicity than N&S, but further research is needed. Vaccine uptake may be increased using MAPs due to less pain, enhanced thermostability, layperson and self-administration. MAPs could benefit at-risk groups and low and middle-income countries. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42022323026.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew N Berger
- Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- Centre for Population Health, Western Sydney Local Health District, North Parramatta, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ellen S Mowbray
- Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Marian W A Farag
- Hillarys Plaza Medical Centre, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Erin Mathieu
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Cristyn Davies
- Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Claire Thomas
- Centre for Population Health, Western Sydney Local Health District, North Parramatta, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robert Booy
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - S Rachel Skinner
- Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Kids Research, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
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7
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Moffatt K, Tekko IA, Vora L, Volpe-Zanutto F, Hutton ARJ, Mistilis J, Jarrahian C, Akhavein N, Weber AD, McCarthy HO, Donnelly RF. Development and Evaluation of Dissolving Microarray Patches for Co-administered and Repeated Intradermal Delivery of Long-acting Rilpivirine and Cabotegravir Nanosuspensions for Paediatric HIV Antiretroviral Therapy. Pharm Res 2023; 40:1673-1696. [PMID: 36224503 PMCID: PMC10421828 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-022-03408-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Whilst significant progress has been made to defeat HIV infection, the efficacy of antiretroviral (ARV) therapy in the paediatric population is often hindered by poor adherence. Currently, two long-acting (LA) intramuscular injectable nanosuspensions of rilpivirine (RPV) and cabotegravir (CAB) are in clinical development for paediatric populations. However, administration requires access to healthcare resources, is painful, and can result in needle-stick injuries to the end user. To overcome these barriers, this proof-of-concept study was developed to evaluate the intradermal delivery of RPV LA and CAB LA via self-disabling dissolving microarray patches (MAPs). METHODS Dissolving MAPs of two conformations, a conventional pyramidal and a bilayer design, were formulated, with various nanosuspensions of RPV and CAB incorporated within the respective MAP matrix. MAPs were mechanically robust and were capable of penetrating ex vivo skin with intradermal ARV deposition. RESULTS In a single-dose in vivo study in rats, all ARV MAPs demonstrated sustained release profiles, with therapeutically relevant plasma concentrations of RPV and CAB detected to at least 63 and 28 d, respectively. In a multi-dose in vivo study, repeated MAP applications at 14-d intervals maintained therapeutically relevant plasma concentrations throughout the duration of the study. CONCLUSIONS These results illustrate the potential of the platform to repeatedly maintain plasma concentrations for RPV and CAB. As such, these MAPs could represent a viable option to improve adherence in the paediatric population, one that is capable of being painlessly administered in the comfort of the patient's own home on a biweekly or less frequent basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurtis Moffatt
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Ismaiel A Tekko
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Lalitkumar Vora
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Fabiana Volpe-Zanutto
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Aaron R J Hutton
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | | | | | - Nima Akhavein
- ViiV Healthcare, 1250 South Collegeville Rd, Collegeville, PA, 19426, USA
| | - Andrew D Weber
- ViiV Healthcare, 410 Blackwell Street, Durham, 27701, NC, UK
| | - Helen O McCarthy
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Ryan F Donnelly
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK.
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Naser YA, Tekko IA, Vora LK, Peng K, Anjani QK, Greer B, Elliott C, McCarthy HO, Donnelly RF. Hydrogel-forming microarray patches with solid dispersion reservoirs for transdermal long-acting microdepot delivery of a hydrophobic drug. J Control Release 2023; 356:416-433. [PMID: 36878320 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogel-forming microarray patches (HF-MAPs) are used to circumvent the skin barrier and facilitate the noninvasive transdermal delivery of many hydrophilic substances. However, their use in the delivery of hydrophobic agents is a challenging task. This work demonstrates, for the first time, the successful transdermal long-acting delivery of the hydrophobic atorvastatin (ATR) via HF-MAPs using poly(ethylene)glycol (PEG)-based solid dispersion (SD) reservoirs. PEG-based SDs of ATR were able to completely dissolve within 90 s in vitro. Ex vivo results showed that 2.05 ± 0.23 mg of ATR/0.5 cm2 patch was delivered to the receiver compartment of Franz cells after 24 h. The in vivo study, conducted using Sprague Dawley rats, proved the versatility of HF-MAPs in delivering and maintaining therapeutically-relevant concentrations (> 20 ng·mL-1) of ATR over 14 days, following a single HF-MAP application for 24 h. The long-acting delivery of ATR suggests the successful formation of hydrophobic microdepots within the skin, allowing for the subsequent sustained delivery as they gradually dissolve over time, as shown in this work. When compared to the oral group, the use of the HF-MAP formulation improved the overall pharmacokinetics profile of ATR in plasma, where significantly higher AUC values resulting in ∼10-fold higher systemic exposure levels were obtained. This novel system offers a promising, minimally-invasive, long-acting alternative delivery system for ATR that is capable of enhancing patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes. It also proposes a unique promising platform for the long-acting transdermal delivery of other hydrophobic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yara A Naser
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Ismaiel A Tekko
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aleppo University, Aleppo, Syria
| | - Lalitkumar K Vora
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Ke Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Qonita K Anjani
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Brett Greer
- Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Science, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Christopher Elliott
- Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Science, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Helen O McCarthy
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Ryan F Donnelly
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
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9
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Nguyen HX, Nguyen CN. Microneedle-Mediated Transdermal Delivery of Biopharmaceuticals. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15010277. [PMID: 36678906 PMCID: PMC9864466 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Transdermal delivery provides numerous benefits over conventional routes of administration. However, this strategy is generally limited to a few molecules with specific physicochemical properties (low molecular weight, high potency, and moderate lipophilicity) due to the barrier function of the stratum corneum layer. Researchers have developed several physical enhancement techniques to expand the applications of the transdermal field; among these, microneedle technology has recently emerged as a promising platform to deliver therapeutic agents of any size into and across the skin. Typically, hydrophilic biomolecules cannot penetrate the skin by passive diffusion. Microneedle insertion disrupts skin integrity and compromises its protective function, thus creating pathways (microchannels) for enhanced permeation of macromolecules. Microneedles not only improve stability but also enhance skin delivery of various biomolecules. Academic institutions and industrial companies have invested substantial resources in the development of microneedle systems for biopharmaceutical delivery. This review article summarizes the most recent research to provide a comprehensive discussion about microneedle-mediated delivery of macromolecules, covering various topics from the introduction of the skin, transdermal delivery, microneedles, and biopharmaceuticals (current status, conventional administration, and stability issues), to different microneedle types, clinical trials, safety and acceptability of microneedles, manufacturing and regulatory issues, and the future of microneedle technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiep X. Nguyen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Mercer University, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-404-820-4015
| | - Chien N. Nguyen
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
- Faculty of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
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10
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Ray S, Puente A, Steinmetz NF, Pokorski JK. Recent advancements in single dose slow-release devices for prophylactic vaccines. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 15:e1832. [PMID: 35850120 PMCID: PMC9840709 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Single dose slow-release vaccines herald a new era in vaccine administration. An ideal device for slow-release vaccine delivery would be minimally invasive and self-administered, making these approaches an attractive alternative for mass vaccination programs, particularly during the time of a pandemic. In this review article, we discuss the latest advances in this field, specifically for prophylactic vaccines able to prevent infectious diseases. Recent studies have found that slow-release vaccines elicit better immune responses and often do not require cold chain transportation and storage, thus drastically reducing the cost, streamlining distribution, and improving efficacy. This promise has attracted significant attention, especially when poor patient compliance of the standard multidose vaccine regimes is considered. Single dose slow-release vaccines are the next generation of vaccine tools that could overcome most of the shortcomings of present vaccination programs and be the next platform technology to combat future pandemics. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies Implantable Materials and Surgical Technologies > Nanomaterials and Implants Biology-Inspired Nanomaterials > Protein and Virus-Based Structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayoni Ray
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA,Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Armando Puente
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA,Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Nicole F. Steinmetz
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA,Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA,Institute for Materials Discovery and Design, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA,Department of Bioengineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA,Department of Radiology, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA,Moores Cancer Center, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Jonathan K. Pokorski
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA,Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA,Institute for Materials Discovery and Design, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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11
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Mahfufah U, Aisha Fitri Sultan N, Maqhfirah Nurul Fitri A, Elim D, Alif Sya'ban Mahfud M, Wafiah N, Ardita Friandini R, Chabib L, Aliyah, Dian Permana A. Application of multipolymers system in the development of hydrogel-forming microneedle integrated with polyethylene glycol reservoir for transdermal delivery of albendazole. Eur Polym J 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2022.111762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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12
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Abu-Much A, Darawshi R, Dawud H, Kasem H, Abu Ammar A. Preparation and characterization of flexible furosemide-loaded biodegradable microneedles for intradermal drug delivery. Biomater Sci 2022; 10:6486-6499. [PMID: 36178014 DOI: 10.1039/d2bm01143c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Transdermal drug delivery systems are a useful and minimally invasive alternative to other drug administration routes. Biodegradable polymeric microneedles (MNs) are widely used in controlled-release drug delivery due to their tunable properties and ease of patient self-administration. Polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) is often used for sustained drug release owing to special intrinsic properties including biocompatibility and biodegradability, which offer excellent applicability in preparing MNs. Congestive heart failure (CHF) is characterized by fluid overload during acute exacerbation, necessitating frequent patient hospitalization for continuous intravenous (i.v.) diuretic therapy. In the present study, we incorporated furosemide (FUR) as a model drug into flexible PLGA MN skin patches for potential intradermal delivery to overcome the limitations associated with i.v. diuresis. The MNs were fabricated by a casting-mold technique and consisted of two main parts, PLGA needle tips loaded with varying concentrations of FUR and a flexible backing layer comprising sodium alginate and glycerol. MN formulations were characterized by SEM and exhibited a uniform pyramidal shape. The measured surface pH of all samples suggested that no skin irritation is expected upon application. High encapsulation efficiency was obtained for FUR-MN formulations in which a decrease was noted as the FUR/PLGA ratio decreased. Drug loading content ranged from 19.1 ± 1% to 28.9 ± 1.4%. Successful insertion of MNs into a Parafilm® skin simulant model suggested that MNs will easily penetrate the skin's outermost layer, the stratum corneum, and will permit intradermal delivery of FUR. The MNs were further characterized by analytical methods. Finally, the MNs exhibited an initial burst release followed by a sustained release of FUR. Self-administered FUR-MNs can open new avenues to overcome i.v. drip limitations and increase patient compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arsalan Abu-Much
- Leviev Heart Center, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel.,Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Raya Darawshi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Azrieli College of Engineering Jerusalem, 26 Yaakov Shreibom Street, Ramat Beit Hakerem, Jerusalem 9103501, Israel.
| | - Hala Dawud
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Azrieli College of Engineering Jerusalem, 26 Yaakov Shreibom Street, Ramat Beit Hakerem, Jerusalem 9103501, Israel.
| | - Haytam Kasem
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Azrieli College of Engineering Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Aiman Abu Ammar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Azrieli College of Engineering Jerusalem, 26 Yaakov Shreibom Street, Ramat Beit Hakerem, Jerusalem 9103501, Israel.
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13
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The clinical and translational prospects of microneedle devices, with a focus on insulin therapy for diabetes mellitus as a case study. Int J Pharm 2022; 628:122234. [PMID: 36191817 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2022.122234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Microneedles have the clinical advantage of being able to deliver complex drugs across the skin in a convenient and comfortable manner yet haven't successfully transitioned to medical practice. Diabetes mellitus is a complicated disease, which is commonly treated with multiple daily insulin injections, contributing to poor treatment adherence. Firstly, this review determines the clinical prospect of microneedles, alongside considerations that ought to be addressed before microneedle technology can be translated from bench to bedside. Thereafter, we use diabetes as a case study to consider how microneedle-based-technology may be successfully harnessed. Here, publications referring to insulin microneedles were evaluated to understand whether insertion efficiency, angle of insertion, successful dose delivery, dose adjustability, material biocompatibility and therapeutic stability are being addressed in early stage research. Moreover, over 3,000 patents from 1970-2019 were reviewed with the search term '"microneedle" AND "insulin"' to understand the current status of the field. In conclusion, the reporting of early stage microneedle research demonstrated a lack of consistency relating to the translational factors addressed. Additionally, a more rational design, based on a patient-centred approach is required before microneedle-based delivery systems can be used to revolutionise the lives of people living with diabetes following regulatory approval.
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14
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Chandran R, Mohd Tohit ER, Stanslas J, Salim N, Tuan Mahmood TM. Investigation and Optimization of Hydrogel Microneedles for Transdermal Delivery of Caffeine. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2022; 28:545-556. [PMID: 35485888 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2022.0045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Caffeine is therapeutically effective for treating apnea, cellulite formation, and pain management. It also exhibits neuroprotective and antioxidant activities in different models of Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. However, caffeine administration in a minimally invasive and sustainable manner through the transdermal route is challenging owing to its hydrophilic nature. Therefore, this study demonstrated a transdermal delivery approach for caffeine by utilizing hydrogel microneedle (MN) as a permeation enhancer. The influence of formulation parameters such as molecular weight (MW) of PMVE/MA (polymethyl vinyl ether/maleic anhydride) copolymer and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) concentration on the swelling kinetics and mechanical integrity of the hydrogel MNs was investigated. In addition, the effect of different MN application methods and needle densities of hydrogel MN on the skin insertion efficiency and penetration depth was also evaluated. The swelling degree at equilibrium percentage (% Seq) recorded for hydrogels fabricated with Gantrez S-97 (MW = 1,500,000 Da) was significantly higher than formulation with Gantrez AN-139 (MW = 1,080,000 Da). Increasing the concentration of NaHCO3 also significantly increased the % Seq. Moreover, a 100% penetration was recorded for both the applicator and combination of applicator and thumb pressure compared with only 11% for thumb pressure alone. The average diameter of micropores created by the applicator method was 62.94 μm, which was significantly lower than the combination of both applicator and thumb pressure MN application (100.53 μm). Based on histological imaging, the penetration depth of hydrogel MN increased as the MN density per array decreased. The hydrogel MN with the optimized formulation and skin insertion parameters was tested for caffeine delivery in an in vitro Franz diffusion cell setup. Approximately 2.9 mg of caffeine was delivered within 24 h, and the drug release profile was best fitted to the Korsmeyer-Peppas model, displaying Super Case II kinetics. In conclusion, a combination of thumb and impact application methods and reduced needle density improved the skin penetration efficiency of hydrogel MNs. The results also show that hydrogel MNs fabricated from 3% w/w NaHCO3 and high MW of copolymer exhibit optimum physical and swelling properties for enhanced transdermal delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubhan Chandran
- Haematology Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Eusni Rahayu Mohd Tohit
- Haematology Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Johnson Stanslas
- Pharmacotherapeutics Unit, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Norazlinaliza Salim
- Integrated Chemical Biophysics Research, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia.,Centre of Foundation Studies for Agricultural Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Tuan Mazlelaa Tuan Mahmood
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The National University of Malaysia (UKM), Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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15
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Li W, Chen JY, Terry RN, Tang J, Romanyuk A, Schwendeman SP, Prausnitz MR. Core-shell microneedle patch for six-month controlled-release contraceptive delivery. J Control Release 2022; 347:489-499. [PMID: 35550913 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.04.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
There is a tremendous need for simple-to-administer, long-acting contraception, which can increase access to improved family planning. Microneedle (MN) patches enable simple self-administration and have previously been formulated for 1-2 months' controlled release of contraceptive hormone using monolithic polymer/drug MN designs having first-order release kinetics. To achieve zero-order release, we developed a novel core-shell MN patch where the shell acts as a rate-controlling membrane to delay release of a contraceptive hormone, levonorgestrel (LNG), for 6 months. In this approach, LNG was encapsulated in a poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) core surrounded by a poly(l-lactide) (PLLA) shell and a poly(D,l-lactide) (PLA) cap that were fabricated by sequential casting into a MN mold. Upon application to skin, the core-shell MNs utilized an effervescent interface to separate from the patch backing within 1 min. The core-shell design limited the initial 24 h burst release of LNG to 5.8 ± 0.5% and achieved roughly zero-order LNG release for 6.2 ± 0.1 months in vitro. A monolithic MN patch formulated with the same LNG and PLGA core, but without the rate-controlling PLLA shell and PLA cap had a larger LNG burst release of 22.6 ± 2.0% and achieved LNG release for just 2.1 ± 0.2 months. This study provides the first core-shell MN patch for controlled months-long drug release and supports the development of long-acting contraception using a simple-to-administer, twice-per-year MN patch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA; Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, China.
| | - Jonathan Yuxuan Chen
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Richard N Terry
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Jie Tang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Andrey Romanyuk
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Steven P Schwendeman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Mark R Prausnitz
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA.
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16
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Detamornrat U, McAlister E, Hutton ARJ, Larrañeta E, Donnelly RF. The Role of 3D Printing Technology in Microengineering of Microneedles. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2022; 18:e2106392. [PMID: 35362226 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202106392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microneedles (MNs) are minimally invasive devices, which have gained extensive interest over the past decades in various fields including drug delivery, disease diagnosis, monitoring, and cosmetics. MN geometry and shape are key parameters that dictate performance and therapeutic efficacy, however, traditional fabrication methods, such as molding, may not be able to offer rapid design modifications. In this regard, the fabrication of MNs using 3D printing technology enables the rapid creation of complex MN prototypes with high accuracy and offers customizable MN devices with a desired shape and dimension. Moreover, 3D printing shows great potential in producing advanced transdermal drug delivery systems and medical devices by integrating MNs with a variety of technologies. This review aims to demonstrate the advantages of exploiting 3D printing technology as a new tool to microengineer MNs. Various 3D printing methods are introduced, and representative MNs manufactured by such approaches are highlighted in detail. The development of advanced MN devices is also included. Finally, clinical translation and future perspectives for the development of MNs using 3D printing are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Usanee Detamornrat
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Emma McAlister
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Aaron R J Hutton
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Eneko Larrañeta
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Ryan F Donnelly
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
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17
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Berzosa M, Nemeskalova A, Zúñiga-Ripa A, Salvador-Bescós M, Larrañeta E, Donnelly RF, Gamazo C, Irache JM. Immune Response after Skin Delivery of a Recombinant Heat-Labile Enterotoxin B Subunit of Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli in Mice. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14020239. [PMID: 35213971 PMCID: PMC8875158 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) infections have been identified as a major cause of acute diarrhoea in children in developing countries, associated with substantial morbidity and mortality rates. Additionally, ETEC remains the most common cause of acute diarrhea of international travellers to endemic areas. The heat-labile toxin (LT) is a major virulence factor of ETEC, with a significant correlation between the presence of antibodies against LT and protection in infected patients. In the present work, we constructed a recombinant LTB unit (rLTB) and studied the capacity of this toxoid incorporated in microneedles (rLTB-MN) to induce a specific immune response in mice. MN were prepared from aqueous blends of the polymer Gantrez AN® [poly (methyl vinyl ether-co-maleic anhydride)], which is not cytotoxic and has been shown to possess immunoadjuvant properties. The mechanical and dissolution properties of rLTB-MNs were evaluated in an in vitro Parafilm M® model and in mice and pig skin ex vivo models. The needle insertion ranged between 378 µm and 504 µm in Parafilm layers, and MNs fully dissolved within 15 min of application inside porcine skin. Moreover, female and male BALB/c mice were immunized through ear skin with one single dose of 5 μg·rLTB in MNs, eliciting significant fecal anti-LT IgA antibodies, higher in female than in male mice. Moreover, we observed an enhanced production of IL-17A by spleen cells in the immunized female mice, indicating a mucosal non-inflammatory and neutralizing mediated response. Further experiments will now be required to validate the protective capacity of this new rLTB-MN formulation against this deadly non-vaccine-preventable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melibea Berzosa
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Tropical Health, IDISNA, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (M.B.); (A.N.); (A.Z.-R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Alzbeta Nemeskalova
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Tropical Health, IDISNA, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (M.B.); (A.N.); (A.Z.-R.); (M.S.-B.)
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Amaia Zúñiga-Ripa
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Tropical Health, IDISNA, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (M.B.); (A.N.); (A.Z.-R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Miriam Salvador-Bescós
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Tropical Health, IDISNA, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (M.B.); (A.N.); (A.Z.-R.); (M.S.-B.)
| | - Eneko Larrañeta
- Medical Biology Centre, School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (E.L.); (R.F.D.)
| | - Ryan F. Donnelly
- Medical Biology Centre, School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (E.L.); (R.F.D.)
| | - Carlos Gamazo
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Tropical Health, IDISNA, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (M.B.); (A.N.); (A.Z.-R.); (M.S.-B.)
- Correspondence: (C.G.); (J.M.I.)
| | - Juan M. Irache
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Correspondence: (C.G.); (J.M.I.)
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18
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Swellable microneedles based transdermal drug delivery: Mathematical model development and numerical experiments. Chem Eng Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ces.2021.117005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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19
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Altuntaş E, Tekko IA, Vora LK, Kumar N, Brodsky R, Chevallier O, McAlister E, Kurnia Anjani Q, McCarthy HO, Donnelly RF. Nestorone nanosuspension-loaded dissolving microneedles array patch: A promising novel approach for "on-demand" hormonal female-controlled peritcoital contraception. Int J Pharm 2021; 614:121422. [PMID: 34958899 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.121422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
"On demand" hormonal female-controlled pericoital contraception is one strategy which could be used to minimize the impact of unintended pregnancy. Nestorone (NES) is a potent contraceptive, with relatively few side effects in comparison with other contraceptives. NES presents an attractive option for "on demand" pericoital contraceptive. Unfortunately, the drug is inactive if taken orally, but it has high progestational activity and antiovulatory potency if administered parenterally. Current drug delivery systems, such as a transdermal hydrogel are not so satisfactory. Dissolving microneedles array (DMNs) are an attractive alternative, minimally-invasive, delivery system. In this study, we report, for the first time, development of tip-loaded NES-nanosuspension (NES-NS)-loaded bilayer DMNs to deliver NES intradermally for subsequent release. NES-NS was prepared and optimised, freeze-dried and then used to fabricate DMNs using a blend of two biocompatible polymers, namely poly(vinyl alcohol) and poly(vinyl pyrrolidone). Both NES-NS and the NES-NS-loaded DMNs were fully characterised and the performance of the DMNs was evaluated in vivo using Sprague Dawley rats. Results showed that the finalised NES-NS had particle size and PDI values of 666.06 ± 1.86 nm and 0.183 ± 0.01, respectively. The NES-NS-DMNs had relatively high tips-localised drug loading (approximately 2.26 ± 1.98 mg/array) and exhibited satisfactory mechanical and insertion properties. In Sprague Dawley rats, DMNs delivered NES into the skin, with the drug then appearing in blood and rapidly reaching its maximum concentration (Cmax of 32.68 ± 14.06 ng/mL) within 1h post-DMNs application. Plasma levels above 3.4 ng/mL were maintained for 2 days. This suggests that DMNs are a promising drug delivery system that could be used to deliver NES as an "On demand" hormonal female-controlled pericoital contraceptive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebru Altuntaş
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK; Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul University, 34416, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ismaiel A Tekko
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK; Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aleppo University, Aleppo, Syria
| | - Lalitkumar K Vora
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Narender Kumar
- Center for Biomedical Research, The Population Council, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rebecca Brodsky
- Center for Biomedical Research, The Population Council, New York, NY, USA
| | - Olivier Chevallier
- Avignon Université, Campus Jean-Henri Fabre, 301 rue Baruch de Spinoza BP 21239, 84911 Avignon cedex 9, France; Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Science, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Emma McAlister
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Qonita Kurnia Anjani
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Helen O McCarthy
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Ryan F Donnelly
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK.
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20
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21
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Weimer P, Rossi RC, Koester LS. Dissolving Microneedles Developed in Association with Nanosystems: A Scoping Review on the Quality Parameters of These Emerging Systems for Drug or Protein Transdermal Delivery. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13101601. [PMID: 34683895 PMCID: PMC8538119 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13101601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The largest organ of the body provides the main challenge for the transdermal delivery of lipophilic or high molecular weight drugs. To cross the main barrier of the skin, the stratum corneum, many techniques have been developed and improved. In the last 20 years, the association of microneedles with nanostructured systems has gained prominence for its versatility and for enabling targeted drug delivery. Currently, the combination of these mechanisms is pointed to as an emerging technology; however, some gaps need to be answered to transcend the development of these devices from the laboratory scale to the pharmaceutical market. It is known that the lack of regulatory guidelines for quality control is a hindrance to market conquest. In this context, this study undertakes a scoping review of original papers concerning methods applied to evaluate both the quality and drug/protein delivery of dissolving and hydrogel-forming microneedles developed in association with nanostructured systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Weimer
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre 90610-000, Brazil;
| | - Rochele Cassanta Rossi
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Nutrição e Alimentos, Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos (UNISINOS), São Leopoldo 93022-000, Brazil;
| | - Letícia Scherer Koester
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre 90610-000, Brazil;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-51-33085278; Fax: +55-51-33085437
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22
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Lee MS, Pan CX, Nambudiri VE. Transdermal approaches to vaccinations in the COVID-19 pandemic era. Ther Adv Vaccines Immunother 2021; 9:25151355211039073. [PMID: 34447901 PMCID: PMC8384302 DOI: 10.1177/25151355211039073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated rapid vaccine development for the control of the disease. Most vaccinations, including those currently approved for COVID-19 are administered intramuscularly and subcutaneously using hypodermic needles. However, there are several disadvantages including pain and fear of needlesticks, the need for two doses, the need for trained health care professionals for vaccine administration, and barriers to global distribution given the need for cold supply chain. Recently, transdermal techniques have been under investigation for vaccines including COVID-19. Microneedle array technology utilizes multiple microscopic projections from a plate which delivers a vaccine in the form of a patch placed on the skin, allowing for painless antigen delivery with improved immune response. In this review, we discuss challenges of existing vaccines and review the literature on the science behind transdermal vaccines including microneedles, current evidence of application in infectious diseases including COVID-19, and considerations for implementation and global access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle S Lee
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Catherina X Pan
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vinod E Nambudiri
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 221 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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23
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Permana AD, Paredes AJ, Zanutto FV, Amir MN, Ismail I, Bahar MA, Palma SD, Donnelly RF. Albendazole Nanocrystal-Based Dissolving Microneedles with Improved Pharmacokinetic Performance for Enhanced Treatment of Cystic Echinococcosis. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:38745-38760. [PMID: 34353029 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c11179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a zoonosis caused by Echinococcus spp., affecting both humans and animals' lives. Current treatment of CE by oral administration of albendazole (ABZ) is hampered by several limitations. The poor aqueous solubility and the rapid metabolism of ABZ in the liver are the main issues, leading to lack of efficacy of the treatment. In the present study, we developed a nanocrystalline (NC) formulation of ABZ to be delivered intradermally using dissolving microneedles (DMNs). The NC formulation was developed using milling in an ultrasmall-scale device. Following several screenings, Pluronic F127 was selected as a suitable stabilizer, producing NCs with around 400 nm in size with narrow particle distribution. The crystallinity of ABZ was maintained as observed by DSC and XRD analysis. The NC approach was able to improve the dissolution percentage of ABZ by approximately three-fold. Furthermore, the incorporation of NCs into DMNs using the combination of poly(vinylpyrrolidone) and poly(vinyl alcohol) formed sharp needles with sufficient mechanical strength and insertion properties. Dermatokinetic studies revealed that >25% of ABZ was localized in the dermis of excised neonatal porcine skin up to 48 h after DMN administration. In in vivo pharmacokinetic studies, the AUC and relative bioavailability values of ABZ delivered by NC-loaded DMNs were found to be significantly higher than those obtained after oral administration of coarse suspension of ABZ or ABZ-NCs, as well as DMNs delivering coarse ABZ as indicated by the relative bioavailability values of >100%. Therefore, the combination approach developed in this study could maintain the systemic circulation of ABZ, which could be possibly caused by avoiding the first-pass metabolism in the liver. This could be beneficial to improve the efficacy of ABZ in CE treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andi Dian Permana
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hasanuddin University, Makassar 90245, Indonesia
| | - Alejandro J Paredes
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Fabiana Volpe Zanutto
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas, R. Cândido Portinari, 200 - Cidade Universitária, Campinas, SP 13083-871, Brazil
| | - Muh Nur Amir
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Hasanuddin, Makassar 90245, Indonesia
| | - Ismail Ismail
- Department of Phytochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Hasanuddin, Makassar 90245, Indonesia
| | - Muh Akbar Bahar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Hasanuddin, Makassar 90245, Indonesia
| | - Santiago Daniel Palma
- Unidad de Investigación y Desarrollo en Tecnología Farmacéutica (UNITEFA), CONICET and Departamento de Ciencias Farmacéuticas, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Haya de la Torre y Medina Allende, X5000XHUA, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Ryan F Donnelly
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
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Sweileh WM. Contribution of faculties of pharmacy in Arab countries to pharmacy practice research: a bibliometric analysis (1990-2020). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE 2021; 29:622-632. [PMID: 34355755 DOI: 10.1093/ijpp/riab051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide an overview of pharmacy practice research by faculties of pharmacy in the Arab region using a bibliometric methodology. METHOD Relevant articles were retrieved from SciVerse Scopus. The search strategy was developed to retrieve all articles published in pharmacy practice journals and those with specific keywords such as 'clinical pharmacy', 'community pharmacy', 'hospital pharmacy', 'pharmacy education' and 'pharmacy practice'. The country affiliation function was used to limit the results to the Arab region. KEY FINDINGS The search strategy found 1496 articles authored by 8210 researchers and disseminated through 337 journals. Research on pharmacy practice produced by faculties of pharmacy in the Arab region (1) has experienced a steep growth over the last decade; (2) is mainly published by scholars in Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates; (3) has benefited from non-Arab scholars affiliated with faculties of pharmacy in the Arab Gulf; (4) has benefited from international collaborations, specifically with researchers in the UK and Malaysia; (5) has mainly addressed seven research topics: adverse drug reactions and pharmacovigilance, medication adherence, self-medication, patient counselling, pharmacy education, perception of physicians towards pharmacists; (6) has shown a relationship between institutional funding and research output and (7) has shown the highest number of readers for topics related to polypharmacy, over-the-counter medications, self-medications, medication adherence and pharmacist intervention in disease management. CONCLUSION Pharmacy practice research in Arab countries has witnessed a steep rise in the last decade, partially due to international research collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waleed M Sweileh
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology/Toxicology, Division of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
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The role of microneedle arrays in drug delivery and patient monitoring to prevent diabetes induced fibrosis. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 175:113825. [PMID: 34111467 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes affects approximately 450 million adults globally. If not effectively managed, chronic hyperglycaemia causes tissue damage that can develop into fibrosis. Fibrosis leads to end-organ complications, failure of organ systems occurs, which can ultimately cause death. One strategy to tackle end-organ complications is to maintain normoglycaemia. Conventionally, insulin is administered subcutaneously. Whilst effective, this delivery route shows several limitations, including pain. The transdermal route is a favourable alternative. Microneedle (MN) arrays are minimally invasive and painless devices that can enhance transdermal drug delivery. Convincing evidence is provided on MN-mediated insulin delivery. MN arrays can also be used as a diagnostic tool and monitor glucose levels. Furthermore, sophisticated MN array-based systems that integrate glucose monitoring and drug delivery into a single device have been designed. Therefore, MN technology has potential to revolutionise diabetes management. This review describes the current applications of MN technology for diabetes management and how these could prevent diabetes induced fibrosis.
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Hutton ARJ, Kirkby M, Larrañeta E, Donnelly RF. Designing a unique feedback mechanism for hydrogel-forming microneedle array patches: a concept study. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2021; 12:838-850. [PMID: 34333728 PMCID: PMC8325539 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-021-01033-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Although microneedle array patch (MAP) technology is reaching ever closer to regulatory approval, it remains imperative that approaches to further improve patient acceptance are still explored. Addressing this perception, a water-filled reservoir was incorporated into a hydrogel-forming MAP system to provide a novel feedback mechanism. To confirm successful MAP skin insertion, the end user would both hear and feel the rupture of the water-filled reservoir. Interestingly, a 50-µL water-filled reservoir ruptured at 30.27 ± 0.39 N, which has previously been shown as the mean application force for MN insertion in human subjects following appropriate instruction. Importantly, no significant difference in % cumulative permeation of FITC-dextran 10 kDa and fluorescein sodium after 24 h was observed between a 50-µL reservoir and the current method of application that has been successfully used in both in vitro and in vivo studies (p > 0.05). Therefore, as drug delivery was not affected, this proof-of-concept study has shown that a water-filled reservoir feedback mechanism has the potential to serve as a viable tool for consistent MAP skin insertion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron R J Hutton
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Melissa Kirkby
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Eneko Larrañeta
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Ryan F Donnelly
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK.
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Paredes AJ, Ramöller IK, McKenna PE, Abbate MT, Volpe-Zanutto F, Vora LK, Kilbourne-Brook M, Jarrahian C, Moffatt K, Zhang C, Tekko IA, Donnelly RF. Microarray patches: Breaking down the barriers to contraceptive care and HIV prevention for women across the globe. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 173:331-348. [PMID: 33831475 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Despite the existence of a variety of contraceptive products for women, as well as decades of research into the prevention and treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), there is still a globally unmet need for easily accessible, acceptable, and affordable products to protect women's sexual and reproductive health. Microarray patches (MAPs) are a novel platform being developed for the delivery of hormonal contraception and antiretroviral drugs. MAPs provide enhanced drug delivery to the systemic circulation via the transdermal route when compared to transdermal patches, oral and injectable formulations. These minimally invasive patches can be self-administered by the user, reducing the burden on health care personnel. Since MAPs represent needle-free drug delivery, no sharps waste is generated after application, thereby eliminating possible MAP reuse and risk of needle-stick injuries. This review discusses the administration of contraceptive and antiretroviral drugs using MAPs, their acceptability by end-users, and the future perspective of the field.
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McAlister E, Dutton B, Vora LK, Zhao L, Ripolin A, Zahari DSZBPH, Quinn HL, Tekko IA, Courtenay AJ, Kelly SA, Rodgers AM, Steiner L, Levin G, Levy‐Nissenbaum E, Shterman N, McCarthy HO, Donnelly RF. Directly Compressed Tablets: A Novel Drug-Containing Reservoir Combined with Hydrogel-Forming Microneedle Arrays for Transdermal Drug Delivery. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2001256. [PMID: 33314714 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202001256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Microneedle (MN) patches consist of a hydrogel-forming MN array and a drug-containing reservoir. Drug-containing reservoirs documented in the literature include polymeric films and lyophilized wafers. While effective, both reservoir formulations are aqueous based, and so degradation can occur during formulation and drying for drugs inherently unstable in aqueous media. The preparation and characterization of novel, nonaqueous-based, directly compressed tablets (DCTs) for use in combination with hydrogel-forming MN arrays are described for the first time. In this work, a range of drug molecules are investigated. Precipitation of amoxicillin (AMX) and primaquine (PQ) in conventional hydrogel-forming MN arrays leads to use of poly(vinyl alcohol)-based MN arrays. Following in vitro permeation studies, in vivo pharmacokinetic studies are conducted in rats with MN patches containing AMX, levodopa/carbidopa (LD/CD), and levofloxacin (LVX). Therapeutically relevant concentrations of AMX (≥2 µg mL-1 ), LD (≥0.5 µg mL-1 ), and LVX (≥0.2 µg mL-1 ) are successfully achieved at 1, 2, and 1 h, respectively. Thus, the use of DCTs offers promise to expand the range of drug molecules that can be delivered transdermally using MN patches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma McAlister
- School of Pharmacy Queen's University Belfast 97 Lisburn Road Belfast BT9 7BL Ireland
| | - Bridie Dutton
- School of Pharmacy Queen's University Belfast 97 Lisburn Road Belfast BT9 7BL Ireland
| | - Lalitkumar K. Vora
- School of Pharmacy Queen's University Belfast 97 Lisburn Road Belfast BT9 7BL Ireland
| | - Li Zhao
- School of Pharmacy Queen's University Belfast 97 Lisburn Road Belfast BT9 7BL Ireland
| | - Anastasia Ripolin
- School of Pharmacy Queen's University Belfast 97 Lisburn Road Belfast BT9 7BL Ireland
| | | | - Helen L. Quinn
- Health and Social Care Board 12‐22 Linenhall Street Belfast BT2 8BS Ireland
| | - Ismaiel A. Tekko
- School of Pharmacy Queen's University Belfast 97 Lisburn Road Belfast BT9 7BL Ireland
| | - Aaron J. Courtenay
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Ulster University Cromore Road Coleraine BT52 1SA Ireland
| | - Stephen A. Kelly
- School of Pharmacy Queen's University Belfast 97 Lisburn Road Belfast BT9 7BL Ireland
| | - Aoife M. Rodgers
- Department of Biology Maynooth University Co. Kildare Maynooth Ireland
| | - Lilach Steiner
- TEVA Pharmaceuticals Basel Street 5, Petah Tikvah Netanya 49131 Israel
| | - Galit Levin
- TEVA Pharmaceuticals Basel Street 5, Petah Tikvah Netanya 49131 Israel
| | | | - Nava Shterman
- TEVA Pharmaceuticals Basel Street 5, Petah Tikvah Netanya 49131 Israel
| | - Helen O. McCarthy
- School of Pharmacy Queen's University Belfast 97 Lisburn Road Belfast BT9 7BL Ireland
| | - Ryan F. Donnelly
- School of Pharmacy Queen's University Belfast 97 Lisburn Road Belfast BT9 7BL Ireland
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McAlister E, Kearney MC, Martin EL, Donnelly RF. From the laboratory to the end-user: a primary packaging study for microneedle patches containing amoxicillin sodium. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2021; 11:2169-2185. [PMID: 33452653 PMCID: PMC8421291 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-020-00883-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Abstract As microneedle (MN) patches progress towards commercialisation, there is a need to address issues surrounding their translation from the laboratory to the end-user. One important aspect of MN patches moving forward is appropriate primary packaging. This research focuses on MN patches containing amoxicillin (AMX) sodium for the potential treatment of neonatal sepsis in hot and humid countries. A MN patch consists of a hydrogel-forming MN array and a drug-containing reservoir. Improper primary packaging in hot and humid countries may result in degradation of active pharmaceutical ingredients, with the use of substandard medicines a major health concern. The research presented here, for the first time, seeks to investigate the integrity of MN patches in different primary packaging when stored under accelerated storage conditions, according to international guidelines. At pre-defined intervals, the performance of the MN patch was investigated. Major causes of drug instability are moisture and temperature. To avoid unnecessary degradation, suitable primary packaging was sought. After 168 days, the percentage of AMX sodium recovered from drug-containing reservoirs packaged in Protect™ 470 foil was 103.51 ± 7.03%. However, packaged in poly(ester) foil, the AMX sodium content decreased significantly (p = 0.0286), which is likely due to the degradation of AMX sodium by the imbibed moisture. Therefore, convincing evidence was provided as to the importance of investigating the stability of MN patches in primary packaging intended for MN-mediated transdermal delivery so that they are ‘fit for purpose’ when it reaches the end-user. Future work will include qualitative studies to assess MN patch usability. Graphical abstract ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma McAlister
- Chair in Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Mary-Carmel Kearney
- Chair in Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - E Linzi Martin
- Chair in Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Ryan F Donnelly
- Chair in Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK.
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Selective delivery of silver nanoparticles for improved treatment of biofilm skin infection using bacteria-responsive microparticles loaded into dissolving microneedles. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2021; 120:111786. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2020.111786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Requena MB, Permana AD, Vollet-Filho JD, González-Vázquez P, Garcia MR, De Faria CMG, Pratavieira S, Donnelly RF, Bagnato VS. Dissolving microneedles containing aminolevulinic acid improves protoporphyrin IX distribution. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2021; 14:e202000128. [PMID: 32981235 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.202000128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
One important limitation of topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) is the limited tissue penetration of precursors. Microneedles (MNs) are minimally invasive devices used to promote intradermal drug delivery. Dissolving MNs contain drug-associated to polymer blends, dissolving after insertion into skin, allowing drug release. This study comprises development and characterization of a pyramidal model of dissolving MNs (500 μm) prepared with 5% wt/wt aminolevulinic acid and 20% wt/wt Gantrez AN-139 in aqueous blend. Protoporphyrin IX formation and distribution were evaluated in tumor mice model by using fluorescence widefield imaging, spectroscopy, and confocal microscopy. MNs demonstrated excellent mechanical resistance penetrating about 250 μm with minor size alteration in vitro, and fluorescence intensity was 5-times higher at 0.5 mm on average compared to cream in vivo (being 10 ± 5 a.u. for MNs and 2.4 ± 0.8 a.u. for cream). Dissolving MNs have overcome topical cream application, being extremely promising especially for thicker skin lesions treatment using PDT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andi Dian Permana
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
| | | | | | - Marlon Rodrigues Garcia
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Sebastião Pratavieira
- São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Vanderlei Salvador Bagnato
- São Carlos Institute of Physics, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil
- Hagler Institute for Advanced Studies,Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
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32
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Versatility of hydrogel-forming microneedles in in vitro transdermal delivery of tuberculosis drugs. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2021; 158:294-312. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2020.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Abbasi A, Hajipour N, Hasannezhad P, Baghbanzadeh A, Aghebati-Maleki L. Potential in vivo delivery routes of postbiotics. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2020; 62:3345-3369. [PMID: 33356449 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2020.1865260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Bioactive micro- and macro-molecules (postbiotics) derived from gut beneficial microbes are among natural chemical compounds with medical significance. Currently, a unique therapeutic strategy has been developed with an emphasis on the small molecular weight biomolecules that are made by the microbiome, which endow the host with several physiological health benefits. A large number of postbiotics have been characterized, which due to their unique pharmacokinetic properties in terms of controllable aspects of the dosage and various delivery routes, could be employed as promising medical tools since they exert both prevention and treatment strategies in the host. Nevertheless, there are still main challenges for the in vivo delivery of postbiotics. Currently, scientific literature confirms that targeted delivery systems based on nanoparticles, due to their appealing properties in terms of high biocompatibility, biodegradability, low toxicity, and significant capability to carry both hydrophobic and hydrophilic postbiotics, can be used as a novel and safe strategy for targeted delivery or/and release of postbiotics in various (oral, intradermal, and intravenous) in vivo models. The in vivo delivery of postbiotics are in their emerging phase and require massive investigation and randomized double-blind clinical trials if they are to be applied extensively as treatment strategies. This manuscript provides an overview of the various postbiotic metabolites derived from the gut beneficial microbes, their potential therapeutic activities, and recent progressions in the drug delivery field, as well as concisely giving an insight on the main in vivo delivery routes of postbiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Abbasi
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Nutrition & Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Neda Hajipour
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Nutrition & Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Paniz Hasannezhad
- Department of Medical Engineering Science, University College of Rouzbahan, Sari, Iran
| | - Amir Baghbanzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Li D, Hu D, Xu H, Patra HK, Liu X, Zhou Z, Tang J, Slater N, Shen Y. Progress and perspective of microneedle system for anti-cancer drug delivery. Biomaterials 2020; 264:120410. [PMID: 32979655 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2020.120410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Transdermal drug delivery exhibited encouraging prospects, especially through superficial drug administration routes. However, only a few limited lipophilic drug molecules could cross the skin barrier, those are with low molecular weight and rational Log P value. Microneedles (MNs) can overcome these limitations to deliver numerous drugs into the dermal layer by piercing the outermost skin layer of the body. In the case of superficial cancer treatments, topical drug administration faces severely low transfer efficiency, and systemic treatments are always associated with side effects and premature drug degradation. MN-based systems have achieved excellent technical capabilities and been tested for pre-clinical chemotherapy, photothermal therapy, photodynamic therapy, and immunotherapy. In this review, we will focus on the features, progress, and opportunities of MNs in the anticancer drug delivery system. Then, we will discuss the strategies and advantages in these works and summarize challenges, perspectives, and translational potential for future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongdong Li
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Doudou Hu
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Hongxia Xu
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Hirak K Patra
- Wolfson College, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 9BB, United Kingdom; Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0AS, United Kingdom
| | - Xiangrui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Zhuxian Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Jianbin Tang
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China.
| | - Nigel Slater
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0AS, United Kingdom
| | - Youqing Shen
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education and Center for Bionanoengineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
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Exploration into the opinions of patients with HIV, healthcare professionals and the lay public of the use of microneedles in clinical practice: highlighting the translational potential for their role in HIV infection. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2020; 11:1199-1217. [PMID: 32946042 PMCID: PMC8096760 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-020-00848-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Poor adherence to oral antiretroviral therapy (ART) remains an important challenge in the treatment of HIV. Microneedles (MN) potentially could offer a non-invasive long-acting (LA) delivery approach, avoiding the need for daily dosing of ART. However, this claim has yet to be explored amongst its potential end-users. The aim of this mixed methods study was to investigate the perspectives from various end-users surrounding the translation of MN technology to general clinical practice, with a particular focus on delivery of ART. Quantitative postal questionnaires were distributed amongst healthcare professionals (HCPs) and the lay public (LP). A total of 208 responses were obtained (HCP, 69; LP, 139), with a completion rate of 34.7%. The consensus on MN technology was positive from both demographics (HCP, 97.1%; LP, 98.6%), with further strong support of postulated MN use within HIV (HCP, 97.1%; LP, 98.6%). Qualitative focus groups were employed to investigate in-depth, the perspectives of 12 patients with HIV. Again, consensus on MN technology was positive, highlighting benefits pertinent to HIV, including discreet self-application and potential sustained release thus avoiding daily oral ART and associated side effects. Patient concerns focused on the need for varied MN dosing schedules and a reluctance to change from established ART. The findings of this study provide an initial indication of MN acceptability, particularly for use within HIV, from various end-user demographics. Furthermore, concerns raised advocate the importance of continued translational research in this area and should act as motivators for those in MN development to ensure a patient-centred MN product is delivered. Graphical Abstract ![]()
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Permana AD, Paredes AJ, Volpe-Zanutto F, Anjani QK, Utomo E, Donnelly RF. Dissolving microneedle-mediated dermal delivery of itraconazole nanocrystals for improved treatment of cutaneous candidiasis. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2020; 154:50-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2020.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Tekko IA, Permana AD, Vora L, Hatahet T, McCarthy HO, Donnelly RF. Localised and sustained intradermal delivery of methotrexate using nanocrystal-loaded microneedle arrays: Potential for enhanced treatment of psoriasis. Eur J Pharm Sci 2020; 152:105469. [PMID: 32679177 PMCID: PMC7417809 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2020.105469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Methotrexate (MTX), typically used as its sodium salt (MTX Na), is a first-line treatments for moderate to severe psoriasis, showing good efficacy. However, its systemic administration is associated with many side effects. Intradermal delivery into psoriatic tissue could offer an alternative approach. However, successful intradermal administration of MTX Na is currently precluded by its physicochemical properties. Moreover, due to its hydrophilic nature, MTX Na is swiftly cleared from the target tissue, necessitating frequent dosing which may affect patient compliance. To address these limitations, we investigated the combination of nanocrystal (NC) and dissolving microneedle (MN) technologies as an alternative approach for localised and sustained intradermal delivery of MTX Na. Poorly water-soluble MTX nanocrystals (MTX NC) were produced by a bottom-up technique with a mean particle size of 678 ± 15 nm. Sustained in vitro drug release was observed over 72 h. The MTX NC were then incorporated into the shafts of dissolving MN arrays with a drug loading of 2.48 mg/array. The MTX NC-loaded MN arrays exhibited satisfactory mechanical strength and insertion capabilities in the skin-simulant Parafilm M® and their shafts dissolved entirely in less than 20 min after insertion into excised neonatal porcine skin. Importantly, in vivo studies in Sprague Dawley rats revealed that the MN arrays were able to deposit approximately 25.1% of the loaded MTX NC in the skin, which acted, in turn, as a drug depot and released the MTX in a sustained manner over 72 h, while minimising MTX systemic exposure. Indeed, 24 h from MN application, 312.70 ± 161.95 µg/g of MTX was retained in the skin at the application site. This was approximately 322-fold higher than the amount of MTX (0.942 ± 0.59 µg/g) retained in the skin after oral administration of MTX Na. Interestingly, even after 72 h after MN application, around 12.5% of the MTX NC deposited in the skin by the MN was retained. In contrast, the maximal blood concentration of MTX achieved following MN application, was only 40% of that measured after oral administration of MTX Na. Accordingly, MTX NC-loaded dissolving MN arrays could be a promising approach for effective localised and sustained intradermal delivery of MTX as a potential enhanced treatment for psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismaiel A Tekko
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom; Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aleppo University, Aleppo, Syria
| | - Andi Dian Permana
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom; Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Lalitkumar Vora
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Taher Hatahet
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Helen O McCarthy
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Ryan F Donnelly
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom.
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Pires LR, Amado IR, Gaspar J. Dissolving microneedles for the delivery of peptides – Towards tolerance-inducing vaccines. Int J Pharm 2020; 586:119590. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2020.119590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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Fu Y, Zhao J, Dong Y, Wang X. Dry Electrodes for Human Bioelectrical Signal Monitoring. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 20:E3651. [PMID: 32610658 PMCID: PMC7374322 DOI: 10.3390/s20133651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Bioelectrical or electrophysiological signals generated by living cells or tissues during daily physiological activities are closely related to the state of the body and organ functions, and therefore are widely used in clinical diagnosis, health monitoring, intelligent control and human-computer interaction. Ag/AgCl electrodes with wet conductive gels are widely used to pick up these bioelectrical signals using electrodes and record them in the form of electroencephalograms, electrocardiograms, electromyography, electrooculograms, etc. However, the inconvenience, instability and infection problems resulting from the use of gel with Ag/AgCl wet electrodes can't meet the needs of long-term signal acquisition, especially in wearable applications. Hence, focus has shifted toward the study of dry electrodes that can work without gels or adhesives. In this paper, a retrospective overview of the development of dry electrodes used for monitoring bioelectrical signals is provided, including the sensing principles, material selection, device preparation, and measurement performance. In addition, the challenges regarding the limitations of materials, fabrication technologies and wearable performance of dry electrodes are discussed. Finally, the development obstacles and application advantages of different dry electrodes are analyzed to make a comparison and reveal research directions for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulin Fu
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, University Town of Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518055, China; (Y.F.); (X.W.)
| | - Jingjing Zhao
- Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua University, University Town of Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518055, China;
| | - Ying Dong
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, University Town of Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518055, China; (Y.F.); (X.W.)
| | - Xiaohao Wang
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, University Town of Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518055, China; (Y.F.); (X.W.)
- Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua University, University Town of Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518055, China;
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Microneedle Mediated Transdermal Delivery of Protein, Peptide and Antibody Based Therapeutics: Current Status and Future Considerations. Pharm Res 2020; 37:117. [PMID: 32488611 PMCID: PMC7266419 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-020-02844-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The success of protein, peptide and antibody based therapies is evident - the biopharmaceuticals market is predicted to reach $388 billion by 2024 [1], and more than half of the current top 20 blockbuster drugs are biopharmaceuticals. However, the intrinsic properties of biopharmaceuticals has restricted the routes available for successful drug delivery. While providing 100% bioavailability, the intravenous route is often associated with pain and needle phobia from a patient perspective, which may translate as a reluctance to receive necessary treatment. Several non-invasive strategies have since emerged to overcome these limitations. One such strategy involves the use of microneedles (MNs), which are able to painlessly penetrate the stratum corneum barrier to dramatically increase transdermal drug delivery of numerous drugs. This review reports the wealth of studies that aim to enhance transdermal delivery of biopharmaceutics using MNs. The true potential of MNs as a drug delivery device for biopharmaceuticals will not only rely on acceptance from prescribers, patients and the regulatory authorities, but the ability to upscale MN manufacture in a cost-effective manner and the long term safety of MN application. Thus, the current barriers to clinical translation of MNs, and how these barriers may be overcome are also discussed.
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Al-Kasasbeh R, Brady AJ, Courtenay AJ, Larrañeta E, McCrudden MTC, O'Kane D, Liggett S, Donnelly RF. Evaluation of the clinical impact of repeat application of hydrogel-forming microneedle array patches. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2020; 10:690-705. [PMID: 32103450 PMCID: PMC7228965 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-020-00727-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogel-forming microneedle array patches (MAPs) have been proposed as viable clinical tools for patient monitoring purposes, providing an alternative to traditional methods of sample acquisition, such as venepuncture and intradermal sampling. They are also undergoing investigation in the management of non-melanoma skin cancers. In contrast to drug or vaccine delivery, when only a small number of MAP applications would be required, hydrogel MAPs utilised for sampling purposes or for tumour eradication would necessitate regular, repeat applications. Therefore, the current study was designed to address one of the key translational aspects of MAP development, namely patient safety. We demonstrate, for the first time in human volunteers, that repeat MAP application and wear does not lead to prolonged skin reactions or prolonged disruption of skin barrier function. Importantly, concentrations of specific systemic biomarkers of inflammation (C-reactive protein (CRP); tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)); infection (interleukin-1β (IL-1β); allergy (immunoglobulin E (IgE)) and immunity (immunoglobulin G (IgG)) were all recorded over the course of this fixed study period. No biomarker concentrations above the normal, documented adult ranges were recorded over the course of the study, indicating that no systemic reactions had been initiated in volunteers. Building upon the results of this study, which serve to highlight the safety of our hydrogel MAP, we are actively working towards CE marking of our MAP technology as a medical device.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rehan Al-Kasasbeh
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Aaron J Brady
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
- Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Belfast City Hospital, 51 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7AB, UK
| | - Aaron J Courtenay
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Eneko Larrañeta
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | | | - Donal O'Kane
- Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Royal Victoria Hospital, 274 Grosvenor Road, Belfast, BT12 6BA, UK
| | - Stephen Liggett
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Ryan F Donnelly
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK.
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Bacterially sensitive nanoparticle-based dissolving microneedles of doxycycline for enhanced treatment of bacterial biofilm skin infection: A proof of concept study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICS-X 2020; 2:100047. [PMID: 32322819 PMCID: PMC7168771 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpx.2020.100047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The presence of bacterial biofilms in wounds is a main issue in the healing process. Conventional therapy of bacterial biofilms is hampered by the poor penetration of antibacterial agents through the physical barrier on the infected skin and the non-specific target of antibacterial agents. Here, we present a combination approach of bacterial sensitive nanoparticles (NPs) and dissolving microneedles (MNs) of doxycycline (DOX) for improved biofilm penetration and specifically delivering DOX to the infection site. The NPs were prepared from poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) and poly (Ɛ-caprolactone) decorated with chitosan. The release of DOX was improved with the presence of bacterial producing biofilm up to 7-fold. The incorporation of these NPs into dissolving MNs was able to significantly enhance the dermatokinetic profiles of DOX, indicated by higher retention time compared to needle-free patches. Importantly, the antibiofilm activity in ex vivo biofilm model showed that after 48 h, the bacterial bioburdens decreased up to 99.99% following the application of this approach. The results presented here assist as proof of principle for the improvement of dermatokinetic profiles and antibiofilm activities of DOX, following its formulation into bacterial sensitive NPs and delivery via MN. Future studies must explore in vivo efficacy in a suitable animal model.
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Dian Permana A, Mir M, Utomo E, Donnelly RF. WITHDRAWN: Bacterially sensitive nanoparticle-based dissolving microneedles of doxycycline for enhanced treatment of bacterial biofilm skin infection: A proof of concept study. Int J Pharm 2020:119220. [PMID: 32165225 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2020.119220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andi Dian Permana
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast. BT9 7BL, UK; Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Maria Mir
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast. BT9 7BL, UK; Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan
| | - Emilia Utomo
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast. BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Ryan F Donnelly
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast. BT9 7BL, UK.
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Permana AD, Tekko IA, McCrudden MT, Anjani QK, Ramadon D, McCarthy HO, Donnelly RF. Solid lipid nanoparticle-based dissolving microneedles: A promising intradermal lymph targeting drug delivery system with potential for enhanced treatment of lymphatic filariasis. J Control Release 2019; 316:34-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2019.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Benson HAE, Grice JE, Mohammed Y, Namjoshi S, Roberts MS. Topical and Transdermal Drug Delivery: From Simple Potions to Smart Technologies. Curr Drug Deliv 2019; 16:444-460. [PMID: 30714524 PMCID: PMC6637104 DOI: 10.2174/1567201816666190201143457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
This overview on skin delivery considers the evolution of the principles of percutaneous ab-sorption and skin products from ancient times to today. Over the ages, it has been recognised that products may be applied to the skin for either local or systemic effects. As our understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the skin has improved, this has facilitated the development of technologies to effectively and quantitatively deliver solutes across this barrier to specific target sites in the skin and beyond. We focus on these technologies and their role in skin delivery today and in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather A E Benson
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University of Technology, Perth, Australia
| | - Jeffrey E Grice
- Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Yousuf Mohammed
- Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Sarika Namjoshi
- Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Michael S Roberts
- Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, QLD, 4102, Australia.,School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
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46
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Rodgers AM, Cordeiro AS, Donnelly RF. Technology update: dissolvable microneedle patches for vaccine delivery. MEDICAL DEVICES-EVIDENCE AND RESEARCH 2019; 12:379-398. [PMID: 31572025 PMCID: PMC6756839 DOI: 10.2147/mder.s198220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite vaccination representing one of the greatest advances of modern preventative medicine, there remain significant challenges in vaccine distribution, delivery and compliance. Dissolvable microarray patches or dissolving microneedles (DMN) have been proposed as an innovative vaccine delivery platform that could potentially revolutionize vaccine delivery and circumvent many of the challenges faced with current vaccine strategies. DMN, due to their ease of use, lack of elicitation of pain response, self-disabling nature and ease of transport and distribution, offer an attractive delivery option for vaccines. Additionally, as DMN inherently targets the uppermost skin layers, they facilitate improved vaccine efficacy, due to direct targeting of skin antigen-presenting cells. A plethora of publications have demonstrated the efficacy of DMN vaccination for a range of vaccines, with influenza receiving particular attention. However, before the viable adoption of DMN for vaccination purposes in a clinical setting, a number of fundamental questions must be addressed. Accordingly, this review begins by introducing some of the key barriers faced by current vaccination approaches and how DMN can overcome these challenges. We introduce some of the recent advances in the field of DMN technology, highlighting the potential impact DMN could have, particularly in countries of the developing world. We conclude by reflecting on some of the key questions that remain unanswered and which warrant further investigation before DMNs can be utilized in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aoife M Rodgers
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Ana Sara Cordeiro
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Ryan F Donnelly
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
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47
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Permana AD, McCrudden MTC, Donnelly RF. Enhanced Intradermal Delivery of Nanosuspensions of Antifilariasis Drugs Using Dissolving Microneedles: A Proof of Concept Study. Pharmaceutics 2019; 11:E346. [PMID: 31319602 PMCID: PMC6680801 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics11070346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Conventional oral administration of antifilariasis drugs results in nonspecific targeting of the drugs and the intradermal delivery of nanoparticles with sizes of <100 nm could be used to improve lymphatic uptake. This study investigated the combination of nanosuspension and dissolving microneedles (MN-NS) as an alternative intradermal delivery approach for the delivery of antifilariasis drugs, namely doxycycline, albendazole, and ivermectin. NS were fabricated and optimized using a bottom-up technique. The NS were then incorporated into the MN arrays. The optimized NS were <100 nm in diameter. Furthermore, MN-NS had suitable mechanical strength and insertion capabilities. The dermatokinetic study revealed that the delivery of drugs into the dermis of excised neonatal porcine skin by MNs was significantly higher than that from a needle-free patch, with 29.29 ± 4.65%, 31.54 ± 5.35%, and 34.54 ± 4.98% of doxycycline, albendazole sulfoxide, and ivermectin retained in the dermis after 24 h. The results presented here serve as proof of concept for the significant enhancement of drug retention times in the dermis, following their formulation into NS and delivery via MN. Leading on from these studies, future work must investigate in vivo lymphatic pharmacokinetic profiling of drugs formulated into NS, in a suitable animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andi Dian Permana
- School of Pharmacy, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hasanuddin University, Makassar 90234, Indonesia
| | - Maelíosa T C McCrudden
- School of Pharmacy, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Ryan F Donnelly
- School of Pharmacy, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
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48
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Nanosuspension-Based Dissolving Microneedle Arrays for Intradermal Delivery of Curcumin. Pharmaceutics 2019; 11:pharmaceutics11070308. [PMID: 31269648 PMCID: PMC6681049 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics11070308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the intradermal delivery of curcumin utilising poly(vinylalcohol) (PVA)-based microneedles loaded with curcumin nanosuspension (CU-NS). Nanoprecipitation was used to formulate the CU-NS which was then incorporated into PVA microneedles arrays consisting of 11 × 11 microneedles of conical shape, measuring 900 µm in height and with 300 µm base diameter. The nanosuspension particle size was 520 ± 40 nm, with a polydispersity of 0.27 ± 0.02 using sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) as a stabiliser. In vitro dissolution studies in 10% w/v Tween 80 showed that the CU-NS dissolved significantly faster than unmodified curcumin powder, with 34% released from the CU-NS, compared to 16% from the curcumin powder after 48 h. The CU-NS-loaded microneedles (CU-MN) were able to withstand a compression force of 32 N for 30 s. Moreover, these microneedles were able to penetrate excised neonatal porcine skin to a depth of 500 µm, dissolved completely in the skin within 60 min. After CU-MN dissolution, the drug diffused from the application site and migrated through the skin layers down to 2300 µm, significantly more than observed with topical application of CU-NS. This suggest that the fabricated microneedles with the incorporated CU-NS could enhance the intradermal delivery of curcumin.
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49
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A Snapshot of Transdermal and Topical Drug Delivery Research in Canada. Pharmaceutics 2019; 11:pharmaceutics11060256. [PMID: 31159422 PMCID: PMC6631132 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics11060256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The minimally- or non-invasive delivery of therapeutic agents through the skin has several advantages compared to other delivery routes and plays an important role in medical care routines. The development and refinement of new technologies is leading to a drastic expansion of the arsenal of drugs that can benefit from this delivery strategy and is further intensifying its impact in medicine. Within Canada, as well, a few research groups have worked on the development of state-of-the-art transdermal delivery technologies. Within this short review, we aim to provide a critical overview of the development of these technologies in the Canadian environment.
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50
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiva Darvishha
- Department of Polymer Engineering, Science and Research Branch Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahar Amiri
- Department of Polymer Engineering, Science and Research Branch Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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