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Ma C, Li X, Mao N, Wang M, Cui C, Jia H, Liu X, Sun Q. Semi-invasive wearable clinic: Solution-processed smart microneedle electronics for next-generation integrated diagnosis and treatment. Biosens Bioelectron 2024; 260:116427. [PMID: 38823368 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2024.116427] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
The integrated smart electronics for real-time monitoring and personalized therapy of disease-related analytes have been gradually gaining tremendous attention. However, human tissue barriers, including the skin barrier and brain-blood barrier, pose significant challenges for effective biomarker detection and drug delivery. Microneedle (MN) electronics present a promising solution to overcome these tissue barriers due to their semi-invasive structures, enabling effective drug delivery and target-analyte detection without compromising the tissue configuration. Furthermore, MNs can be fabricated through solution processing, facilitating large-scale manufacturing. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the recent three-year advancements in smart MNs development, categorized as follows. First, the solution-processed technology for MNs is introduced, with a focus on various printing technologies. Subsequently, smart MNs designed for sensing, drug delivery, and integrated systems combining diagnosis and treatment are separately summarized. Finally, the prospective and promising applications of next-generation MNs within mediated diagnosis and treatment systems are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Ma
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronic Materials and Thin-Film Technologies, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xiaomeng Li
- National Center for International Joint Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Ning Mao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronic Materials and Thin-Film Technologies, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Mengwei Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronic Materials and Thin-Film Technologies, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Cancan Cui
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronic Materials and Thin-Film Technologies, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Hanyu Jia
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronic Materials and Thin-Film Technologies, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xuying Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronic Materials and Thin-Film Technologies, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Qingqing Sun
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronic Materials and Thin-Film Technologies, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
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2
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Jin Y, Lu Y, Jiang X, Wang M, Yuan Y, Zeng Y, Guo L, Li W. Accelerated infected wound healing by probiotic-based living microneedles with long-acting antibacterial effect. Bioact Mater 2024; 38:292-304. [PMID: 38745591 PMCID: PMC11091528 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2024.05.008] [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: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Delays in infected wound healing are usually a result of bacterial infection and local inflammation, which imposes a significant and often underappreciated burden on patients and society. Current therapies for chronic wound infection generally suffer from limited drug permeability and frequent drug administration, owing to the existence of a wound biofilm that acts as a barrier restricting the entry of various antibacterial drugs. Here, we report the design of a biocompatible probiotic-based microneedle (MN) patch that can rapidly deliver beneficial bacteria to wound tissues with improved delivery efficiency. The probiotic is capable of continuously producing antimicrobial substances by metabolizing introduced glycerol, thereby facilitating infected wound healing through long-acting antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, the beneficial bacteria can remain highly viable (>80 %) inside MNs for as long as 60 days at 4 °C. In a mouse model of Staphylococcus aureus-infected wounds, a single administration of the MN patch exhibited superior antimicrobial efficiency and wound healing performance in comparison with the control groups, indicating great potential for accelerating infected wound closure. Further development of live probiotic-based MN patches may enable patients to better manage chronically infected wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinli Jin
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yun Lu
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xue Jiang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yaqi Yuan
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yongnian Zeng
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Liang Guo
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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3
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Nguyen-Thi PT, Vo TK, Le HT, Nguyen NTT, Nguyen TT, Van Vo G. Translation from Preclinical Research to Clinical Trials: Transdermal Drug Delivery for Neurodegenerative and Mental Disorders. Pharm Res 2024:10.1007/s11095-024-03718-x. [PMID: 38862719 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-024-03718-x] [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: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), particularly dementia, provide significant problems to worldwide healthcare systems. The development of therapeutic materials for various diseases has a severe challenge in the form of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Transdermal treatment has recently garnered widespread favor as an alternative method of delivering active chemicals to the brain. This approach has several advantages, including low invasiveness, self-administration, avoidance of first-pass metabolism, preservation of steady plasma concentrations, regulated release, safety, efficacy, and better patient compliance. Topics include the transdermal method for therapeutic NDs, their classification, and the mechanisms that allow the medicine to enter the bloodstream through the skin. The paper also discusses the obstacles and potential outcomes of transdermal therapy, emphasizing the benefits and drawbacks of different approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tuong Kha Vo
- Department of Sports Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy (VNU-UMP), Vietnam National University Hanoi, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam
| | - Huong Thuy Le
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Vietnam
| | - Nhat Thang Thi Nguyen
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, 71420, Vietnam.
| | - Thuy Trang Nguyen
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, 71420, Vietnam
| | - Giau Van Vo
- Degenerative Diseases Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA.
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Fitaihi R, Abukhamees S, Chung SH, Craig DQM. Optimization of stereolithography 3D printing of microneedle micro-molds for ocular drug delivery. Int J Pharm 2024; 658:124195. [PMID: 38703935 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124195] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Microneedles (MN) have emerged as an innovative technology for drug delivery, offering a minimally invasive approach to administer therapeutic agents. Recent applications have included ocular drug delivery, requiring the manufacture of sub-millimeter needle arrays in a reproducible and reliable manner. The development of 3D printing technologies has facilitated the fabrication of MN via mold production, although there is a paucity of information available regarding how the printing parameters may influence crucial issues such as sharpness and penetration efficacy. In this study, we have developed and optimized a 3D-printed MN micro-mold using stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing to prepare a dissolving ocular MN patch. The effects of a range of parameters including aspect ratio, layer thickness, length, mold shape and printing orientation have been examined with regard to both architecture and printing accuracy of the MN micro-mold, while the effects of printing angle on needle fidelity was also examined for a range of basic shapes (conical, pyramidal and triangular pyramidal). Mechanical strength and in vitro penetration of the polymeric (PVP/PVA) MN patch produced from reverse molds fabricated using MN with a range of shapes and height, and aspect ratios were assessed, followed by ex vivo studies of penetration into excised scleral and corneal tissues. The optimization process identified the parameters required to produce MN with the sharpest tips and highest dimensional fidelity, while the ex vivo studies indicated that these optimized systems would penetrate the ocular tissue with minimal applied pressure, thereby allowing ease of patient self-administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawan Fitaihi
- Research Department of Pharmaceutics, University College London, School of Pharmacy, 29-39 Brunswick Square, WC1N 1AX London, UK; Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Shorooq Abukhamees
- Research Department of Pharmaceutics, University College London, School of Pharmacy, 29-39 Brunswick Square, WC1N 1AX London, UK; Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan.
| | - Se Hun Chung
- Research Department of Pharmaceutics, University College London, School of Pharmacy, 29-39 Brunswick Square, WC1N 1AX London, UK; Academic Centre of Reconstructive Science, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Duncan Q M Craig
- Research Department of Pharmaceutics, University College London, School of Pharmacy, 29-39 Brunswick Square, WC1N 1AX London, UK; Faculty of Science, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY, UK.
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Pereira R, Vinayakumar KB, Sillankorva S. Polymeric Microneedles for Health Care Monitoring: An Emerging Trend. ACS Sens 2024; 9:2294-2309. [PMID: 38654679 PMCID: PMC11129353 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.4c00612] [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: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Bioanalyte collection by blood draw is a painful process, prone to needle phobia and injuries. Microneedles can be engineered to penetrate the epidermal skin barrier and collect analytes from the interstitial fluid, arising as a safe, painless, and effective alternative to hypodermic needles. Although there are plenty of reviews on the various types of microneedles and their use as drug delivery systems, there is a lack of systematization on the application of polymeric microneedles for diagnosis. In this review, we focus on the current state of the art of this field, while providing information on safety, preclinical and clinical trials, and market distribution, to outline what we believe will be the future of health monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel
L. Pereira
- INL − International Iberian
Nanotechnology Laboratory, Av. Mestre José Veiga, 4715-330 Braga, Portugal
| | - K. B. Vinayakumar
- INL − International Iberian
Nanotechnology Laboratory, Av. Mestre José Veiga, 4715-330 Braga, Portugal
| | - Sanna Sillankorva
- INL − International Iberian
Nanotechnology Laboratory, Av. Mestre José Veiga, 4715-330 Braga, Portugal
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Razzaghi M, Ninan JA, Azimzadeh M, Askari E, Najafabadi AH, Khademhosseini A, Akbari M. Remote-Controlled Sensing and Drug Delivery via 3D-Printed Hollow Microneedles. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2400881. [PMID: 38781005 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202400881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Remote health monitoring and treatment serve as critical drivers for advancing health equity, bridging geographical and socioeconomic disparities, ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare for those in underserved or remote regions. By democratizing healthcare, this approach offers timely interventions, continuous monitoring, and personalized care independent of one's location or socioeconomic status, thereby striving for an equitable distribution of health resources and outcomes. Meanwhile, microneedle arrays (MNAs), revolutionize painless and minimally invasive access to interstitial fluid for drug delivery and diagnostics. This paper introduces an integrated theranostic MNA system employing an array of colorimetric sensors to quantitatively measure -pH, glucose, and lactate, alongside a remotely-triggered system enabling on-demand drug delivery. Integration of an ultrasonic atomizer streamlines the drug delivery, facilitating rapid, pumpless, and point-of-care drug delivery, enhancing system portability while reducing complexities. An accompanying smartphone application interfaces the sensing and drug delivery components. Demonstrated capabilities include detecting pH (3 to 8), glucose (up to 16 mm), and lactate (up to 1.6 mm), showcasing on-demand drug delivery, and assessing delivery system performance via a scratch assay. This innovative approach confronts drug delivery challenges, particularly in managing chronic diseases requiring long-term treatment, while also offering avenues for non-invasive health monitoring through microneedle-based sensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmood Razzaghi
- Mechanical Engineering Laboratory for Innovations in Microengineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Joel Alexander Ninan
- Mechanical Engineering Laboratory for Innovations in Microengineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Mostafa Azimzadeh
- Mechanical Engineering Laboratory for Innovations in Microengineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Esfandyar Askari
- Mechanical Engineering Laboratory for Innovations in Microengineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Alireza Hassani Najafabadi
- Drug Delivery and Immunoengineering Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovations, Los Angeles, CA, 90050, USA
| | - Ali Khademhosseini
- Drug Delivery and Immunoengineering Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovations, Los Angeles, CA, 90050, USA
| | - Mohsen Akbari
- Mechanical Engineering Laboratory for Innovations in Microengineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada
- Drug Delivery and Immunoengineering Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovations, Los Angeles, CA, 90050, USA
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Khairnar P, Phatale V, Shukla S, Tijani AO, Hedaoo A, Strauss J, Verana G, Vambhurkar G, Puri A, Srivastava S. Nanocarrier-Integrated Microneedles: Divulging the Potential of Novel Frontiers for Fostering the Management of Skin Ailments. Mol Pharm 2024; 21:2118-2147. [PMID: 38660711 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.4c00144] [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] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
The various kinds of nanocarriers (NCs) have been explored for the delivery of therapeutics designed for the management of skin manifestations. The NCs are considered as one of the promising approaches for the skin delivery of therapeutics attributable to sustained release and enhanced skin penetration. Despite the extensive applications of the NCs, the challenges in their delivery via skin barrier (majorly stratum corneum) have persisted. To overcome all the challenges associated with the delivery of NCs, the microneedle (MN) technology has emerged as a beacon of hope. Programmable drug release, being painless, and its minimally invasive nature make it an intriguing strategy to circumvent the multiple challenges associated with the various drug delivery systems. The integration of positive traits of NCs and MNs boosts therapeutic effectiveness by evading stratum corneum, facilitating the delivery of NCs through the skin and enhancing their targeted delivery. This review discusses the barrier function of skin, the importance of MNs, the types of MNs, and the superiority of NC-loaded MNs. We highlighted the applications of NC-integrated MNs for the management of various skin ailments, combinational drug delivery, active targeting, in vivo imaging, and as theranostics. The clinical trials, patent portfolio, and marketed products of drug/NC-integrated MNs are covered. Finally, regulatory hurdles toward benchtop-to-bedside translation, along with promising prospects needed to scale up NC-integrated MN technology, have been deliberated. The current review is anticipated to deliver thoughtful visions to researchers, clinicians, and formulation scientists for the successful development of the MN-technology-based product by carefully optimizing all the formulation variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Khairnar
- Pharmaceutical Innovation and Translational Research Lab (PITRL), Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Telangana 500037, India
| | - Vivek Phatale
- Pharmaceutical Innovation and Translational Research Lab (PITRL), Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Telangana 500037, India
| | - Shalini Shukla
- Pharmaceutical Innovation and Translational Research Lab (PITRL), Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Telangana 500037, India
| | - Akeemat O Tijani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee 37614, United States
| | - Aachal Hedaoo
- Pharmaceutical Innovation and Translational Research Lab (PITRL), Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Telangana 500037, India
| | - Jordan Strauss
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee 37614, United States
| | - Gabrielle Verana
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee 37614, United States
| | - Ganesh Vambhurkar
- Pharmaceutical Innovation and Translational Research Lab (PITRL), Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Telangana 500037, India
| | - Ashana Puri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee 37614, United States
| | - Saurabh Srivastava
- Pharmaceutical Innovation and Translational Research Lab (PITRL), Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad, Telangana 500037, India
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Zhuang ZM, Wang Y, Feng ZX, Lin XY, Wang ZC, Zhong XC, Guo K, Zhong YF, Fang QQ, Wu XJ, Chen J, Tan WQ. Targeting Diverse Wounds and Scars: Recent Innovative Bio-design of Microneedle Patch for Comprehensive Management. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2306565. [PMID: 38037685 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202306565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Wounds and the subsequent formation of scars constitute a unified and complex phased process. Effective treatment is crucial; however, the diverse therapeutic approaches for different wounds and scars, as well as varying treatment needs at different stages, present significant challenges in selecting appropriate interventions. Microneedle patch (MNP), as a novel minimally invasive transdermal drug delivery system, has the potential for integrated and programmed treatment of various diseases and has shown promising applications in different types of wounds and scars. In this comprehensive review, the latest applications and biotechnological innovations of MNPs in these fields are thoroughly explored, summarizing their powerful abilities to accelerate healing, inhibit scar formation, and manage related symptoms. Moreover, potential applications in various scenarios are discussed. Additionally, the side effects, manufacturing processes, and material selection to explore the clinical translational potential are investigated. This groundwork can provide a theoretical basis and serve as a catalyst for future innovations in the pursuit of favorable therapeutic options for skin tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Ming Zhuang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Zi-Xuan Feng
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Ying Lin
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Zheng-Cai Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Xin-Cao Zhong
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Kai Guo
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Yu-Fan Zhong
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Qing-Qing Fang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Jin Wu
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, 322000, P. R. China
| | - Jian Chen
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, 322000, P. R. China
| | - Wei-Qiang Tan
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310016, P. R. China
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Zuo Y, Sun R, Del Piccolo N, Stevens MM. Microneedle-mediated nanomedicine to enhance therapeutic and diagnostic efficacy. NANO CONVERGENCE 2024; 11:15. [PMID: 38634994 PMCID: PMC11026339 DOI: 10.1186/s40580-024-00421-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Nanomedicine has been extensively explored for therapeutic and diagnostic applications in recent years, owing to its numerous advantages such as controlled release, targeted delivery, and efficient protection of encapsulated agents. Integration of microneedle technologies with nanomedicine has the potential to address current limitations in nanomedicine for drug delivery including relatively low therapeutic efficacy and poor patient compliance and enable theragnostic uses. In this Review, we first summarize representative types of nanomedicine and describe their broad applications. We then outline the current challenges faced by nanomedicine, with a focus on issues related to physical barriers, biological barriers, and patient compliance. Next, we provide an overview of microneedle systems, including their definition, manufacturing strategies, drug release mechanisms, and current advantages and challenges. We also discuss the use of microneedle-mediated nanomedicine systems for therapeutic and diagnostic applications. Finally, we provide a perspective on the current status and future prospects for microneedle-mediated nanomedicine for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyang Zuo
- Department of Materials, Department of Bioengineering, and Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Rujie Sun
- Department of Materials, Department of Bioengineering, and Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Nuala Del Piccolo
- Department of Materials, Department of Bioengineering, and Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Molly M Stevens
- Department of Materials, Department of Bioengineering, and Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK.
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, Department of Engineering Science, and Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK.
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Jadach B, Nowak A, Długaszewska J, Kordyl O, Budnik I, Osmałek T. Coated Microneedle System for Delivery of Clotrimazole in Deep-Skin Mycoses. Gels 2024; 10:264. [PMID: 38667683 PMCID: PMC11048890 DOI: 10.3390/gels10040264] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Mycoses of the skin are infectious diseases caused by fungal microorganisms that are generally treated with topical agents. However, such therapy is often ineffective and has to be supported by oral use of active substances, which, in turn, can cause many side effects. A good alternative for the treatment of deep-skin mycoses seems to be microneedles (MNs). The aim of this research was to fabricate and evaluate the properties of innovative MNs coated with a hydrogel as potential carriers for clotrimazole (CLO) in the treatment of deep fungal skin infections. A 3D printing technique using a photo-curable resin was employed to produce MNs, which were coated with hydrogels using a dip-coating method. Hydrogels were prepared with carbopol EZ-3 Polymer (Lubrizol) in addition to glycerol and triisopropanolamine. Clotrimazole was introduced into the gel as the solution in ethanol or was suspended. In the first step of the investigation, a texture analysis of hydrogels was prepared with a texture analyzer, and the drug release studies were conducted with the use of automatic Franz diffusion cells. Next, the release profiles of CLO for coated MNs were checked. The last part of the investigation was the evaluation of the antifungal activity of the prepared systems, and the inhibition of the growth of Candida albicans was checked with the diffusion and suspended-plate methods. The texture profile analysis (TPA) for the tested hydrogels showed that the addition of ethanol significantly affects the following studied parameters: hardness, adhesiveness and gumminess, causing a decrease in their values. On the other hand, for the gels with suspended CLO, better spreadability was seen compared to gels with dissolved CLO. The presence of the active substance did not significantly affect the values of the tested parameters. In the dissolution study, the results showed that higher amounts of CLO were released for MNs coated with a hydrogel containing dissolved CLO. Also, microbiological tests proved its efficacy against fungal cultures. Qualitative tests carried out using the diffusion method showed that circular zones of inhibition of fungal growth on the plate were obtained, confirming the hypothesis of effectiveness. The suspension-plate technique confirmed the inhibitory effect of applied CLO on the growth of Candida albicans. From the analysis of the data, the MNs coated with CLO dissolved in hydrogel showed better antifungal activity. All received results seem to be helpful in developing further studies for MNs as carriers of antifungal substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Jadach
- Division of Industrial Pharmacy, Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 3 Rokietnicka, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Agata Nowak
- Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 3 Rokietnicka, 60-806 Poznan, Poland (T.O.)
| | - Jolanta Długaszewska
- Department of Genetics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 3 Rokietnicka, 60-806 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Oliwia Kordyl
- Division of 3D Printing, Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 3 Rokietnicka, 60-806 Poznan, Poland; (O.K.); (I.B.)
| | - Irena Budnik
- Division of 3D Printing, Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 3 Rokietnicka, 60-806 Poznan, Poland; (O.K.); (I.B.)
| | - Tomasz Osmałek
- Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 3 Rokietnicka, 60-806 Poznan, Poland (T.O.)
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11
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Zhang S, Staples AE. Microfluidic-based systems for the management of diabetes. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024:10.1007/s13346-024-01569-y. [PMID: 38509342 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-024-01569-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Diabetes currently affects approximately 500 million people worldwide and is one of the most common causes of mortality in the United States. To diagnose and monitor diabetes, finger-prick blood glucose testing has long been used as the clinical gold standard. For diabetes treatment, insulin is typically delivered subcutaneously through cannula-based syringes, pens, or pumps in almost all type 1 diabetic (T1D) patients and some type 2 diabetic (T2D) patients. These painful, invasive approaches can cause non-adherence to glucose testing and insulin therapy. To address these problems, researchers have developed miniaturized blood glucose testing devices as well as microfluidic platforms for non-invasive glucose testing through other body fluids. In addition, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin levels, and cellular biomechanics-related metrics have also been considered for microfluidic-based diabetes diagnosis. For the treatment of diabetes, insulin has been delivered transdermally through microdevices, mostly through microneedle array-based, minimally invasive injections. Researchers have also developed microfluidic platforms for oral, intraperitoneal, and inhalation-based delivery of insulin. For T2D patients, metformin, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), and GLP-1 receptor agonists have also been delivered using microfluidic technologies. Thus far, clinical studies have been widely performed on microfluidic-based diabetes monitoring, especially glucose sensing, yet technologies for the delivery of insulin and other drugs to diabetic patients with microfluidics are still mostly in the preclinical stage. This article provides a concise review of the role of microfluidic devices in the diagnosis and monitoring of diabetes, as well as the delivery of pharmaceuticals to treat diabetes using microfluidic technologies in the recent literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyu Zhang
- Virginia Tech-Wake Forest School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA.
| | - Anne E Staples
- Virginia Tech-Wake Forest School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
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12
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Dawud H, Edelstein-Pardo N, Mulamukkil K, Amir RJ, Abu Ammar A. Hydrogel Microneedles with Programmed Mesophase Transitions for Controlled Drug Delivery. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:1682-1693. [PMID: 38335540 PMCID: PMC10951948 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c01133] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Microneedle-based drug delivery offers an attractive and minimally invasive administration route to deliver therapeutic agents through the skin by bypassing the stratum corneum, the main skin barrier. Recently, hydrogel-based microneedles have gained prominence for their exceptional ability to precisely control the release of their drug cargo. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of fabricating microneedles from triblock amphiphiles with linear poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) as the hydrophilic middle block and two dendritic side-blocks with enzyme-cleavable hydrophobic end-groups. Due to the poor formation and brittleness of microneedles made from the neat amphiphile, we added a sodium alginate base layer and tested different polymeric excipients to enhance the mechanical strength of the microneedles. Following optimization, microneedles based on triblock amphiphiles were successfully fabricated and exhibited favorable insertion efficiency and low height reduction percentage when tested in Parafilm as a skin-simulant model. When tested against static forces ranging from 50 to 1000 g (4.9-98 mN/needle), the microneedles showed adequate mechanical strength with no fractures or broken segments. In buffer solution, the solid microneedles swelled into a hydrogel within about 30 s, followed by their rapid disintegration into small hydrogel particles. These hydrogel particles could undergo slow enzymatic degradation to soluble polymers. In vitro release study of dexamethasone (DEX), as a steroid model drug, showed first-order drug release, with 90% released within 6 days. Eventually, DEX-loaded MNs were subjected to an insertion test using chicken skin and showed full penetration. This study demonstrates the feasibility of programming hydrogel-forming microneedles to undergo several mesophase transitions and their potential application as a delivery system for self-administration, increased patient compliance, improved efficacy, and sustained drug release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hala Dawud
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Azrieli College
of Engineering Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9103501, Israel
| | - Nicole Edelstein-Pardo
- School
of Chemistry, Faculty of Exact Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
- The
Center for Physics and Chemistry of Living Systems, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
- The
Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Keerthana Mulamukkil
- School
of Chemistry, Faculty of Exact Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
- The
Center for Physics and Chemistry of Living Systems, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
- The
Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Roey J. Amir
- School
of Chemistry, Faculty of Exact Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
- The
Center for Physics and Chemistry of Living Systems, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
- The
Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
- ADAMA
Center for Novel Delivery Systems in Crop Protection, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Aiman Abu Ammar
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Azrieli College
of Engineering Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9103501, Israel
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13
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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:e2304082. [PMID: 38471772 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202304082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [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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14
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Martínez-Navarrete M, Guillot AJ, Lobita MC, Recio MC, Giner R, Aparicio-Blanco J, Montesinos MC, Santos HA, Melero A. Cyclosporin A-loaded dissolving microneedles for dermatitis therapy: Development, characterisation and efficacy in a delayed-type hypersensitivity in vivo model. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024:10.1007/s13346-024-01542-9. [PMID: 38472726 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-024-01542-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Several drugs can be used for treating inflammatory skin pathologies like dermatitis and psoriasis. However, for the management of chronic and long-term cases, topical administration is preferred over oral delivery since it prevents certain issues due to systemic side effects from occurring. Cyclosporin A (CsA) has been used for this purpose; however, its high molecular weight (1202 Da) restricts the diffusion through the skin structure. Here, we developed a nano-in-micro device combining lipid vesicles (LVs) and dissolving microneedle array patches (DMAPs) for targeted skin delivery. CsA-LVs allowed the effective incorporation of CsA in the hydrophilic DMAP matrix despite the hydrophobicity of the drug. Polymeric matrix composed of poly (vinyl alcohol) (5% w/v), poly (vinyl pyrrolidine) (15% w/v) and CsA-LV dispersion (10% v/v) led to the formation of CsA-LVs@DMAPs with adequate mechanical properties to penetrate the stratum corneum barrier. The safety and biocompatibility were ensured in an in vitro viability test using HaCaT keratinocytes and L929 fibroblast cell lines. Ex vivo permeability studies in a Franz-diffusion cell setup showed effective drug retention in the skin structure. Finally, CsA-LVs@DMAPs were challenged in an in vivo murine model of delayed-type hypersensitivity to corroborate their potential to ameliorate skin inflammatory conditions. Different findings like photon emission reduction in bioluminescence study, normalisation of histological damage and decrease of inflammatory cytokines point out the effectivity of CsA-LVs@DMAPs to treat these conditions. Overall, our study demonstrates that CsA-LVs@DMAPs can downregulate the skin inflammatory environment which paves the way for their clinical translation and their use as an alternative to corticosteroid-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miquel Martínez-Navarrete
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, University of Valencia, Ave. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio José Guillot
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, University of Valencia, Ave. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain.
- Department of Biomaterials and Biomedical Technology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Ant. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Maria C Lobita
- Department of Biomaterials and Biomedical Technology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Ant. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - María Carmen Recio
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Valencia, Ave. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain
| | - Rosa Giner
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Valencia, Ave. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain
| | - Juan Aparicio-Blanco
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Plaza Ramón y Cajal s/n, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Carmen Montesinos
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Valencia, Ave. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain
- Interuniversity Research Institute for Molecular Recognition and Technological Development (IDM), University of Valencia, Polytechnic University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Hélder A Santos
- Department of Biomaterials and Biomedical Technology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Ant. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, FI-00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ana Melero
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, University of Valencia, Ave. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100, Burjassot, Valencia, Spain
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15
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Bader N, Abu Ammar A. Incorporating surfactants into PCL microneedles for sustained release of a hydrophilic model drug. Int J Pharm 2024; 652:123826. [PMID: 38253267 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.123826] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Polymeric microneedles (MNs) are widely used for sustained drug release due to their distinct advantages over other types of MNs. Poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) stands out as a biodegradable and biocompatible hydrophobic polymer commonly employed in drug delivery applications. This study explores the impact of surfactants on the encapsulation and release rate of a model hydrophilic drug, minoxidil (MXD), from PCL MNs. Three nonionic surfactants, Tween 80, Span 60, and polyethylene glycol (PEG), were integrated into PCL MNs at varying concentrations. Compared to the other types of surfactants, PEG-containing PCL MNs exhibit enhanced insertion capabilities into a skin-simulant parafilm model and increased mechanical strength, suggesting facile penetration into the stratum corneum. Furthermore, MXD-PEG MNs show the highest encapsulation efficiency and are further characterized using FTIR, DSC and XRD. Their mechanical strength against different static forces was measured. The MNs exhibit a sustained release pattern over 20 days. Eventually, MXD-PEG MNs were subjected to penetration testing using chicken skin and required minimal insertion forces with no observed MN failure during experimentation even after compression with the maximum force applied (32 N per patch). Taken together, the present work demonstrates the feasibility of incorporating nonionic surfactants like PEG into the tips of hydrophobic PCL MNs for sustained delivery of a model hydrophilic drug. This formulation strategy can be used to improve patient compliance by allowing self-administration and achieving prolonged drug release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadeen Bader
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Azrieli College of Engineering Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9103501, Israel
| | - Aiman Abu Ammar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Azrieli College of Engineering Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9103501, Israel.
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16
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Barati M, Hashemi S, Sayed Tabatabaei M, Zarei Chamgordani N, Mortazavi SM, Moghimi HR. Protein-based microneedles for biomedical applications: A systematic review. Biomed Microdevices 2024; 26:19. [PMID: 38430398 DOI: 10.1007/s10544-024-00701-6] [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] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Microneedles are minimally-invasive devices with the unique capability of bypassing physiological barriers. Hence, they are widely used for different applications from drug/vaccine delivery to diagnosis and cosmetic fields. Recently, natural biopolymers (particularly carbohydrates and proteins) have garnered attention as safe and biocompatible materials with tailorable features for microneedle construction. Several review articles have dealt with carbohydrate-based microneedles. This review aims to highlight the less-noticed role of proteins through a systematic search strategy based on the PRISMA guideline from international databases of PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Original English articles with the keyword "microneedle(s)" in their titles along with at least one of the keywords "biopolymers, silk, gelatin, collagen, zein, keratin, fish-scale, mussel, and suckerin" were collected and those in which the proteins undertook a structural role were screened. Then, we focused on the structures and applications of protein-based microneedles. Also, the unique features of some protein biopolymers that make them ideal for microneedle construction (e.g., excellent mechanical strength, self-adhesion, and self-assembly), as well as the challenges associated with them were reviewed. Altogether, the proteins identified so far seem not only promising for the fabrication of "better" microneedles in the future but also inspiring for designing biomimetic structural biopolymers with ideal characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maedeh Barati
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shiva Hashemi
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Sayed Tabatabaei
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasrin Zarei Chamgordani
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Maryam Mortazavi
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Moghimi
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Protein Technology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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17
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Chanabodeechalermrung B, Chaiwarit T, Chaichit S, Udomsom S, Baipaywad P, Worajittiphon P, Jantrawut P. HPMC/PVP K90 Dissolving Microneedles Fabricated from 3D-Printed Master Molds: Impact on Microneedle Morphology, Mechanical Strength, and Topical Dissolving Property. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:452. [PMID: 38399830 PMCID: PMC10891514 DOI: 10.3390/polym16040452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) printing can be used to fabricate custom microneedle (MN) patches instead of the conventional method. In this work, 3D-printed MN patches were utilized to fabricate a MN mold, and the mold was used to prepare dissolving MNs for topical lidocaine HCl (L) delivery through the skin. Topical creams usually take 1-2 h to induce an anesthetic effect, so the delivery of lidocaine HCl from dissolving MNs can allow for a therapeutic effect to be reached faster than with a topical cream. The dissolving-MN-patch-incorporated lidocaine HCl was constructed from hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC; H) and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP K90; P) using centrifugation. Additionally, the morphology, mechanical property, skin insertion, dissolving behavior, drug-loading content, drug release of MNs and the chemical interactions among the compositions were also examined. H51P2-L, H501P2-L, and H901P2-L showed an acceptable needle appearance without bent tips or a broken structure, and they had a low % height change (<10%), including a high blue-dot percentage on the skin (>80%). These three formulations exhibited a drug-loading content approaching 100%. Importantly, the composition-dependent dissolving abilities of MNs were revealed. Containing the lowest amount of HPMC in its formulation, H901P2-L showed the fastest dissolving ability, which was related to the high amount of lidocaine HCl released through the skin. Moreover, the results of an FTIR analysis showed no chemical interactions among the two polymers and lidocaine HCl. As a result, HPMC/PVP K90 dissolving microneedles can be used to deliver lidocaine HCl through the skin, resulting in a faster onset of anesthetic action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baramee Chanabodeechalermrung
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (B.C.); (T.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Tanpong Chaiwarit
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (B.C.); (T.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Siripat Chaichit
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (B.C.); (T.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Suruk Udomsom
- Biomedical Engineering and Innovation Research Center, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (S.U.); (P.B.)
- Biomedical Engineering Institute (BMEI), Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Office of Research Administration, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Phornsawat Baipaywad
- Biomedical Engineering and Innovation Research Center, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (S.U.); (P.B.)
- Biomedical Engineering Institute (BMEI), Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Patnarin Worajittiphon
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand;
- Center of Excellence in Materials Science and Technology, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Pensak Jantrawut
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (B.C.); (T.C.); (S.C.)
- Center of Excellence in Materials Science and Technology, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Agro Bio-Circular-Green Industry (Agro BCG), Agro-Industry, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
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18
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Khorshidian A, Sharifi N, Choupani Kheirabadi F, Rezaei F, Sheikholeslami SA, Ariyannejad A, Esmaeili J, Basati H, Barati A. In Vitro Release of Glycyrrhiza Glabra Extract by a Gel-Based Microneedle Patch for Psoriasis Treatment. Gels 2024; 10:87. [PMID: 38391417 PMCID: PMC10887857 DOI: 10.3390/gels10020087] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Microneedle patches are attractive drug delivery systems that give hope for treating skin disorders. In this study, to first fabricate a chitosan-based low-cost microneedle patch (MNP) using a CO2 laser cutter for in vitro purposes was tried and then the delivery and impact of Glycyrrhiza glabra extract (GgE) on the cell population by this microneedle was evaluated. Microscopic analysis, swelling, penetration, degradation, biocompatibility, and drug delivery were carried out to assess the patch's performance. DAPI staining and acridine orange (AO) staining were performed to evaluate cell numbers. Based on the results, the MNs were conical and sharp enough (diameter: 400-500 μm, height: 700-900 μm). They showed notable swelling (2 folds) during 5 min and good degradability during 30 min, which can be considered a burst release. The MNP showed no cytotoxicity against fibroblast cell line L929. It also demonstrated good potential for GgE delivery. The results from AO and DAPI staining approved the reduction in the cell population after GgE delivery. To sum up, the fabricated MNP can be a useful recommendation for lab-scale studies. In addition, a GgE-loaded MNP can be a good remedy for skin disorders in which cell proliferation needs to be controlled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayeh Khorshidian
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, TISSUEHUB Co., Tehran 1956854977, Iran
- Department of Tissue Engineering, TISSUEHUB Co., Tehran 1956854977, Iran
| | - Niloufar Sharifi
- Department of Tissue Engineering, TISSUEHUB Co., Tehran 1956854977, Iran
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450066, China
| | - Fatemeh Choupani Kheirabadi
- Department of Tissue Engineering, TISSUEHUB Co., Tehran 1956854977, Iran
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz 54911, Iran
| | - Farnoushsadat Rezaei
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Seyed Alireza Sheikholeslami
- Department of Tissue Engineering, TISSUEHUB Co., Tehran 1956854977, Iran
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Arak University, Arak 3848177584, Iran
| | - Ayda Ariyannejad
- Department of Tissue Engineering, TISSUEHUB Co., Tehran 1956854977, Iran
- Department of Marine Biology, Faculty of Life Science and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran 1983969411, Iran
| | - Javad Esmaeili
- Department of Tissue Engineering, TISSUEHUB Co., Tehran 1956854977, Iran
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Arak University, Arak 3848177584, Iran
- Tissue Engineering Hub (TEHUB), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran 1956854977, Iran
| | - Hojat Basati
- Department of Tissue Engineering, TISSUEHUB Co., Tehran 1956854977, Iran
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tehran University, Tehran 3584014179, Iran
| | - Aboulfazl Barati
- Center for Materials and Manufacturing Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Physics, Troy University, Troy, AL 36082, USA
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19
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Moawad F, Le Meur M, Ruel Y, Gaëlle Roullin V, Pouliot R, Brambilla D. Impact of the crystal size of crystalline active pharmaceutical compounds on loading into microneedles. Int J Pharm 2024; 649:123676. [PMID: 38056795 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123676] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Microneedle (MN) technology offers a promising platform for the delivery of a wide variety of active pharmaceutical compounds into and/or through the skin. Yet, the low loading capacity of MNs limits their clinical translation. The solid state of loaded compounds, crystallinity versus amorphousness and crystal size of the former, could greatly affect their loading. Here, we investigated the effect of the crystal size of crystalline compounds on their loading into dissolving MNs, prepared using the solvent-casting technique. A model crystalline compound was subjected to crystal size reduction via wet bead milling and loaded into dissolving MNs. A range of crystal sizes, from micro to nano, was obtained via different milling periods. The obtained crystals were characterized for their size, morphology, and sedimentation behavior. Besides, their content, solid state inside the MNs, and impact on the MN mechanical strength were assessed. The crystals exhibited size-dependent sedimentation, which dramatically affected their loading inside the MNs. However, crystal size and sedimentation demonstrated a negligible effect on the mechanical strength and sharpness of the needles, hence no anticipated impact on the MNs' drug delivery efficiency. The elucidation of the correlation between the crystal size and MN loading opens new potentials to address a major drawback in MN technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Moawad
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62514, Egypt
| | - Marion Le Meur
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Yasmine Ruel
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Laval, Québec, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada
| | | | - Roxane Pouliot
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Laval, Québec, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Davide Brambilla
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada.
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20
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Alkahtani ME, Elbadawi M, Chapman CAR, Green RA, Gaisford S, Orlu M, Basit AW. Electroactive Polymers for On-Demand Drug Release. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2301759. [PMID: 37861058 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202301759] [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: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Conductive materials have played a significant role in advancing society into the digital era. Such materials are able to harness the power of electricity and are used to control many aspects of daily life. Conductive polymers (CPs) are an emerging group of polymers that possess metal-like conductivity yet retain desirable polymeric features, such as processability, mechanical properties, and biodegradability. Upon receiving an electrical stimulus, CPs can be tailored to achieve a number of responses, such as harvesting energy and stimulating tissue growth. The recent FDA approval of a CP-based material for a medical device has invigorated their research in healthcare. In drug delivery, CPs can act as electrical switches, drug release is achieved at a flick of a switch, thereby providing unprecedented control over drug release. In this review, recent developments in CP as electroactive polymers for voltage-stimuli responsive drug delivery systems are evaluated. The review demonstrates the distinct drug release profiles achieved by electroactive formulations, and both the precision and ease of stimuli response. This level of dynamism promises to yield "smart medicines" and warrants further research. The review concludes by providing an outlook on electroactive formulations in drug delivery and highlighting their integral roles in healthcare IoT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manal E Alkahtani
- UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London, WC1N 1AX, UK
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Moe Elbadawi
- UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London, WC1N 1AX, UK
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Christopher A R Chapman
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
- Centre for Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Rylie A Green
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Simon Gaisford
- UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London, WC1N 1AX, UK
| | - Mine Orlu
- UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London, WC1N 1AX, UK
| | - Abdul W Basit
- UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London, WC1N 1AX, UK
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21
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Rahbari R, Francis L, Guy OJ, Sharma S, Von Ruhland C, Xia Z. Microneedle-Assisted Transfersomes as a Transdermal Delivery System for Aspirin. Pharmaceutics 2023; 16:57. [PMID: 38258069 PMCID: PMC10819469 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010057] [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: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Transdermal drug delivery systems offer several advantages over conventional oral or hypodermic administration due to the avoidance of first-pass drug metabolism and gastrointestinal degradation as well as patients' convenience due to a minimally invasive and painless approach. A novel transdermal drug delivery system, comprising a combination of transfersomes with either solid silicon or solid polycarbonate microneedles has been developed for the transdermal delivery of aspirin. Aspirin was encapsulated inside transfersomes using a "thin-film hydration sonication" technique, yielding an encapsulation efficiency of approximately 67.5%. The fabricated transfersomes have been optimised and fully characterised in terms of average size distribution and uniformity, surface charge and stability (shelf-life). Transdermal delivery, enhanced by microneedle penetration, allows the superior permeation of transfersomes into perforated porcine skin and has been extensively characterised using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In vitro permeation studies revealed that transfersomes enhanced the permeability of aspirin by more than four times in comparison to the delivery of unencapsulated "free" aspirin. The microneedle-assisted delivery of transfersomes encapsulating aspirin yielded 13-fold and 10-fold increases in permeation using silicon and polycarbonate microneedles, respectively, in comparison with delivery using only transfersomes. The cytotoxicity of different dose regimens of transfersomes encapsulating aspirin showed that encapsulated aspirin became cytotoxic at concentrations of ≥100 μg/mL. The results presented demonstrate that the transfersomes could resolve the solubility issues of low-water-soluble drugs and enable their slow and controlled release. Microneedles enhance the delivery of transfersomes into deeper skin layers, providing a very effective system for the systemic delivery of drugs. This combined drug delivery system can potentially be utilised for numerous drug treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raha Rahbari
- Centre for Nanohealth, Institute of Life Science 2, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Lewis Francis
- Centre for Nanohealth, Institute of Life Science 2, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Owen J. Guy
- Department of Chemistry, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK;
| | - Sanjiv Sharma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Christopher Von Ruhland
- Electron Microscopy Unit, Central Biotechnology Services, Institute for Translation, Innovation, Methodology and Engagement, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK;
| | - Zhidao Xia
- Centre for Nanohealth, Institute of Life Science 2, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
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22
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Omar R, Zheng Y, Haick H. Protocol to fabricate wearable stretchable microneedle-based sensors. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:102751. [PMID: 37999973 PMCID: PMC10709397 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102751] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Creating highly stretchable and robust electrodes while retaining conductivity and stability is challenging. Furthermore, combining these elastic parts with rigid ones brings its own problems due to the discrepancy in firmness between the flexible patches and rigid constructions. Here, we present a protocol to create a stable, conductive, and flexible microneedle sensor patch. We describe steps for using polystyrene-block-polyisoprene-block-polystyrene with silver nanowires, besides fabricating rigid microneedles and combining them together using a thickness-gradient strategy. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Zheng et al. (2022).1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawan Omar
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Russell Berrie Nanotechnology Institute, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel.
| | - Youbin Zheng
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Russell Berrie Nanotechnology Institute, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel; Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GJ, UK.
| | - Hossam Haick
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Russell Berrie Nanotechnology Institute, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel.
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23
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Phoka T, Thanuthanakhun N, Visitchanakun P, Dueanphen N, Wanichwecharungruang N, Leelahavanichkul A, Palaga T, Ruxrungtham K, Wanichwecharungruang S. Detachable-dissolvable-microneedle as a potent subunit vaccine delivery device that requires no cold-chain. Vaccine X 2023; 15:100398. [PMID: 37920235 PMCID: PMC10618702 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvacx.2023.100398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Although vaccine administration by microneedles has been demonstrated, delivery reliability issues have prevented their implementation. Through an ex vivo porcine skin experiment, we show visual evidence indicating that detachable dissolvable microneedles (DDMN) can deposit cargo into the dermis with insignificant loss of cargo to the stratum corneum. Using ovalbumin (OVA), a model antigen vaccine, as a cargo, the ex vivo experiments yielded a delivery efficiency of 86.08 ± 4.16 %. At room temperature, OVA could be stabilized for up to 35 days in DDMN made from hyaluronic acid and trehalose. The DDMN matrix could improve the denaturation temperature of the OVA from around 70-120 °C to over 150 °C, as demonstrated by differential scanning calorimetric analysis. In vivo delivery of OVA antigen into the mice's skin via DDMN elicited 10 times higher specific antibody responses compared to conventional intramuscular injection. We envision DDMN as an effective, precise dosing, intradermal vaccine delivery system that may require no cold-chain, offers a dose-sparing effect, and can be administered easily.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theerapat Phoka
- Center of Excellence in Materials and Bio-Interfaces, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Peerapat Visitchanakun
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence on Translational Research in Inflammation and Immunology (CETRII), Thailand
| | - Narintorn Dueanphen
- The Petrochemistry and Polymer Science Program, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Asada Leelahavanichkul
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence on Translational Research in Inflammation and Immunology (CETRII), Thailand
| | - Tanapat Palaga
- Center of Excellence in Materials and Bio-Interfaces, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kiat Ruxrungtham
- Chula Vaccine Research Center (ChulaVRC) and School of Global Health, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Supason Wanichwecharungruang
- Center of Excellence in Materials and Bio-Interfaces, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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24
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Chakraborty C, Bhattacharya M, Lee SS. Current Status of Microneedle Array Technology for Therapeutic Delivery: From Bench to Clinic. Mol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s12033-023-00961-2. [PMID: 37987985 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00961-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, microneedle (MN) patches have emerged as an alternative technology for transdermal delivery of various drugs, therapeutics proteins, and vaccines. Therefore, there is an urgent need to understand the status of MN-based therapeutics. The article aims to illustrate the current status of microneedle array technology for therapeutic delivery through a comprehensive review. However, the PubMed search was performed to understand the MN's therapeutics delivery status. At the same time, the search shows the number no of publications on MN is increasing (63). The search was performed with the keywords "Coated microneedle," "Hollow microneedle," "Dissolvable microneedle," and "Hydrogel microneedle," which also shows increasing trend. Similarly, the article highlighted the application of different microneedle arrays for treating different diseases. The article also illustrated the current status of different phases of MN-based therapeutics clinical trials. It discusses the delivery of different therapeutic molecules, such as drug molecule delivery, using microneedle array technology. The approach mainly discusses the delivery of different therapeutic molecules. The leading pharmaceutical companies that produce the microneedle array for therapeutic purposes have also been discussed. Finally, we discussed the limitations and future prospects of this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiranjib Chakraborty
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Adamas University, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700126, India.
| | - Manojit Bhattacharya
- Department of Zoology, Fakir Mohan University, Vyasa Vihar, Balasore, Odisha, 756020, India
| | - Sang-Soo Lee
- Institute for Skeletal Aging & Orthopedic Surgery, Hallym University-Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do, 24252, Republic of Korea
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25
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Firdous SO, Sagor MMH, Arafat MT. Advances in Transdermal Delivery of Antimicrobial Peptides for Wound Management: Biomaterial-Based Approaches and Future Perspectives. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023. [PMID: 37976446 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), distinguished by their cationic and amphiphilic nature, represent a critical frontier in the battle against antimicrobial resistance due to their potent antimicrobial activity and a broad spectrum of action. However, the clinical translation of AMPs faces hurdles, including their susceptibility to degradation, limited bioavailability, and the need for targeted delivery. Transdermal delivery has immense potential for optimizing AMP administration for wound management. Leveraging the skin's accessibility and barrier properties, transdermal delivery offers a noninvasive approach that can circumvent systemic side effects and ensure sustained release. Biomaterial-based delivery systems, encompassing nanofibers, hydrogels, nanoparticles, and liposomes, have emerged as key players in enhancing the efficacy of transdermal AMP delivery. These biomaterial carriers not only shield AMPs from enzymatic degradation but also provide controlled release mechanisms, thereby elevating stability and bioavailability. The synergistic interaction between the transdermal approach and biomaterial-facilitated formulations presents a promising strategy to overcome the multifaceted challenges associated with AMP delivery. Integrating advanced technologies and personalized medicine, this convergence allows the reimagining of wound care. This review amalgamates insights to propose a pathway where AMPs, transdermal delivery, and biomaterial innovation harmonize for effective wound management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syeda Omara Firdous
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
| | - Md Mehadi Hassan Sagor
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
| | - M Tarik Arafat
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
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26
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Shriky B, Babenko M, Whiteside BR. Dissolving and Swelling Hydrogel-Based Microneedles: An Overview of Their Materials, Fabrication, Characterization Methods, and Challenges. Gels 2023; 9:806. [PMID: 37888379 PMCID: PMC10606778 DOI: 10.3390/gels9100806] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Polymeric hydrogels are a complex class of materials with one common feature-the ability to form three-dimensional networks capable of imbibing large amounts of water or biological fluids without being dissolved, acting as self-sustained containers for various purposes, including pharmaceutical and biomedical applications. Transdermal pharmaceutical microneedles are a pain-free drug delivery system that continues on the path to widespread adoption-regulatory guidelines are on the horizon, and investments in the field continue to grow annually. Recently, hydrogels have generated interest in the field of transdermal microneedles due to their tunable properties, allowing them to be exploited as delivery systems and extraction tools. As hydrogel microneedles are a new emerging technology, their fabrication faces various challenges that must be resolved for them to redeem themselves as a viable pharmaceutical option. This article discusses hydrogel microneedles from a material perspective, regardless of their mechanism of action. It cites the recent advances in their formulation, presents relevant fabrication and characterization methods, and discusses manufacturing and regulatory challenges facing these emerging technologies before their approval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bana Shriky
- Faculty of Engineering and Digital Technologies, University of Bradford, Bradford BD7 1DP, UK;
| | | | - Ben R. Whiteside
- Faculty of Engineering and Digital Technologies, University of Bradford, Bradford BD7 1DP, UK;
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27
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Atia GA, Shalaby HK, Roomi AB, Ghobashy MM, Attia HA, Mohamed SZ, Abdeen A, Abdo M, Fericean L, Bănățean Dunea I, Atwa AM, Hasan T, Mady W, Abdelkader A, Ali SA, Habotta OA, Azouz RA, Malhat F, Shukry M, Foda T, Dinu S. Macro, Micro, and Nano-Inspired Bioactive Polymeric Biomaterials in Therapeutic, and Regenerative Orofacial Applications. Drug Des Devel Ther 2023; 17:2985-3021. [PMID: 37789970 PMCID: PMC10543943 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s419361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introducing dental polymers has accelerated biotechnological research, advancing tissue engineering, biomaterials development, and drug delivery. Polymers have been utilized effectively in dentistry to build dentures and orthodontic equipment and are key components in the composition of numerous restorative materials. Furthermore, dental polymers have the potential to be employed for medication administration and tissue regeneration. To analyze the influence of polymer-based investigations on practical medical trials, it is required to evaluate the research undertaken in this sector. The present review aims to gather evidence on polymer applications in dental, oral, and maxillofacial reconstruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gamal A Atia
- Department of Oral Medicine, Periodontology, and Diagnosis, Faculty of Dentistry, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Hany K Shalaby
- Department of Oral Medicine, Periodontology and Oral Diagnosis, Faculty of Dentistry, Suez University, Suez, Egypt
| | - Ali B Roomi
- Department of Quality Assurance, University of Thi-Qar, Thi-Qar, Iraq
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Health and Medical Technology, National University of Science and Technology, Thi-Qar, Iraq
| | - Mohamed M Ghobashy
- Radiation Research of Polymer Chemistry Department, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hager A Attia
- Department of Molecular Biology and Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Sara Z Mohamed
- Department of Removable Prosthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Abdeen
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Toukh, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Abdo
- Department of Animal Histology and Anatomy, School of Veterinary Medicine, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Egypt
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Sadat, Egypt
| | - Liana Fericean
- Department of Biology and Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture. University of Life Sciences “King Michael I” from Timișoara, Timișoara, Romania
| | - Ioan Bănățean Dunea
- Department of Biology and Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture. University of Life Sciences “King Michael I” from Timișoara, Timișoara, Romania
| | - Ahmed M Atwa
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Egyptian Russian University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Tabinda Hasan
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wessam Mady
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afaf Abdelkader
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Susan A Ali
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Abbassia, 1181, Egypt
| | - Ola A Habotta
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Rehab A Azouz
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Farag Malhat
- Department of Pesticide Residues and Environmental Pollution, Central Agricultural Pesticide Laboratory, Agricultural Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mustafa Shukry
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt
| | - Tarek Foda
- Oral Health Sciences Department, Temple University’s Kornberg School of Dentistry, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Stefania Dinu
- Department of Pedodontics, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
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28
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Dul M, Alali M, Ameri M, Burke MD, Craig CM, Creelman BP, Dick L, Donnelly RF, Eakins MN, Frivold C, Forster AH, Gilbert PA, Henke S, Henry S, Hunt D, Lewis H, Maibach HI, Mistilis JJ, Park JH, Prausnitz MR, Robinson DK, Hernandez CAR, Ross C, Shin J, Speaker TJ, Taylor KM, Zehrung D, Birchall JC, Jarrahian C, Coulman SA. Assessing the risk of a clinically significant infection from a Microneedle Array Patch (MAP) product. J Control Release 2023; 361:236-245. [PMID: 37437849 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Microneedle Array Patches (MAPs) are an emerging dosage form that creates transient micron-sized disruptions in the outermost physical skin barrier, the stratum corneum, to facilitate delivery of active pharmaceutical ingredients to the underlying tissue. Numerous MAP products are proposed and there is significant clinical potential in priority areas such as vaccination. However, since their inception scientists have hypothesized about the risk of a clinically significant MAP-induced infection. Safety data from two major Phase 3 clinical trials involving hundreds of participants, who in total received tens of thousands of MAP applications, does not identify any clinically significant infections. However, the incumbent data set is not extensive enough to make definitive generalizable conclusions. A comprehensive assessment of the infection risk is therefore advised for MAP products, and this should be informed by clinical and pre-clinical data, theoretical analysis and informed opinions. In this article, a group of key stakeholders identify some of the key product- and patient-specific factors that may contribute to the risk of infection from a MAP product and provide expert opinions in the context of guidance from regulatory authorities. Considerations that are particularly pertinent to the MAP dosage form include the specifications of the finished product (e.g. microbial specification), it's design features, the setting for administration, the skill of the administrator, the anatomical application site, the target population and the clinical context. These factors, and others discussed in this article, provide a platform for the development of MAP risk assessments and a stimulus for early and open dialogue between developers, regulatory authorities and other key stakeholders, to expedite and promote development of safe and effective MAP products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Dul
- Cardiff School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Howard I Maibach
- Department of Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Jung-Hwan Park
- Department of Bionano Technology, Gachon University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Mark R Prausnitz
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Kevin Michael Taylor
- University College London School of Pharmacy, British Pharmacopoeia Commission, UK
| | | | - James C Birchall
- Cardiff School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Sion A Coulman
- Cardiff School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.
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29
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Stoilov B, Truong VK, Gronthos S, Vasilev K. Noninvasive and Microinvasive Nanoscale Drug Delivery Platforms for Hard Tissue Engineering. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:2925-2943. [PMID: 37565698 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00095] [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] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Bone tissue plays a crucial role in protecting internal organs and providing structural support and locomotion of the body. Treatment of hard tissue defects and medical conditions due to physical injuries, genetic disorders, aging, metabolic syndromes, and infections is more often a complex and drawn out process. Presently, dealing with hard-tissue-based clinical problems is still mostly conducted via surgical interventions. However, advances in nanotechnology over the last decades have led to shifting trends in clinical practice toward noninvasive and microinvasive methods. In this review article, recent advances in the development of nanoscale platforms for bone tissue engineering have been reviewed and critically discussed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of noninvasive and microinvasive methods for treating medical conditions related to hard tissue regeneration and repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borislav Stoilov
- Biomedical Nanoengineering Laboratory, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Adelaide, South Australia 5042, Australia
| | - Vi Khanh Truong
- Biomedical Nanoengineering Laboratory, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Adelaide, South Australia 5042, Australia
| | - Stan Gronthos
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide/SAHMRI, North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia 5001, Australia
| | - Krasimir Vasilev
- Biomedical Nanoengineering Laboratory, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Adelaide, South Australia 5042, Australia
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30
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Khalid R, Mahmood S, Mohamed Sofian Z, Hilles AR, Hashim NM, Ge Y. Microneedles and Their Application in Transdermal Delivery of Antihypertensive Drugs-A Review. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2029. [PMID: 37631243 PMCID: PMC10459756 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15082029] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most cutting-edge, effective, and least invasive pharmaceutical innovations is the utilization of microneedles (MNs) for drug delivery, patient monitoring, diagnostics, medicine or vaccine delivery, and other medical procedures (e.g., intradermal vaccination, allergy testing, dermatology, and blood sampling). The MN-based system offers many advantages, such as minimal cost, high medical effectiveness, comparatively good safety, and painless drug application. Drug delivery through MNs can possibly be viewed as a viable instrument for various macromolecules (e.g., proteins, peptides, and nucleic acids) that are not efficiently administered through traditional approaches. This review article provides an overview of MN-based research in the transdermal delivery of hypertensive drugs. The critical attributes of microneedles are discussed, including the mechanism of drug release, pharmacokinetics, fabrication techniques, therapeutic applications, and upcoming challenges. Furthermore, the therapeutic perspective and improved bioavailability of hypertensive drugs that are poorly aqueous-soluble are also discussed. This focused review provides an overview of reported studies and the recent progress of MN-based delivery of hypertensive drugs, paving the way for future pharmaceutical uses. As MN-based drug administration bypasses first-pass metabolism and the high variability in drug plasma levels, it has grown significantly more important for systemic therapy. In conclusion, MN-based drug delivery of hypertensive drugs for increasing bioavailability and patient compliance could support a new trend of hypertensive drug delivery and provide an alternative option, overcoming the restrictions of the current dosage forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramsha Khalid
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (R.K.); (Z.M.S.)
| | - Syed Mahmood
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (R.K.); (Z.M.S.)
| | - Zarif Mohamed Sofian
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (R.K.); (Z.M.S.)
| | - Ayah R. Hilles
- INHART, International Islamic University Malaysia, Jalan Gombak, Kuala Lumpur 53100, Malaysia;
| | - Najihah Mohd Hashim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
- Center for Natural Products Research and Drug Discovery (CENAR), Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Yi Ge
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
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Garg M, Jain N, Kaul S, Rai VK, Nagaich U. Recent advancements in the expedition of microneedles: from lab worktops to diagnostic care centers. Mikrochim Acta 2023; 190:301. [PMID: 37464230 DOI: 10.1007/s00604-023-05859-z] [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: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Microneedle (MN) technology plays a significant role in bioengineering as it allows for minimally invasive exposure to the skin via the non-invasive procedure, increased drug permeability, and improved biological molecule detectability in the epidermal layers, all while improving therapeutic safety and effectiveness. However, MNs have several significant drawbacks, including difficulty scaling up, variability in drug delivery pattern regarding the skin's external environment, blockage of dermal tissues, induction of inflammatory response at the administration site, and limitation of dosing based on the molecular weight of drug and size. Despite these drawbacks, MNs have emerged as a special transdermal theranostics instrument in clinical research to assess physiological parameters. Bioimaging technology relies on microneedles that can measure particular analytes in the extracellular fluid effectively by crossing the stratum corneum, making them "a unique tool in diagnostics detection and therapeutic application inside the body." This review article discusses the recent advances in the applications especially related to the diagnostics and toxicity challenges of microneedles. In addition, this review article discusses the clinical state and commercial accessibility of microneedle technology-based devices in order to provide new information to scientists and researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megha Garg
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Noida, India
| | - Neha Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Noida, India.
| | - Shreya Kaul
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Noida, India
| | - Vineet Kumar Rai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Siksha 'o' Anusandhan University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751003, India
| | - Upendra Nagaich
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Noida, India.
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Pelaez MJ, Ruiz-Ramirez J, Shen Y, Birur RM, Schiavone C, Cristini V, Puri A, Wang Z, Dogra P. Mechanistic modeling for optimal design of dissolvable microneedle-based patches for transdermal drug delivery. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2023; 2023:1-4. [PMID: 38082979 DOI: 10.1109/embc40787.2023.10341093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Polymeric microneedle (MN)-based patches are an efficient, non-invasive, and painless means of drug delivery through the skin to systemic circulation. The design of these MN-based patches can be customized for various drug delivery applications, particularly modified release of drugs. In this study, we developed a mathematical model of drug delivery via MN-based patches to study the effect of patch design properties on drug delivery kinetics and systemic pharmacokinetics (PK). We calibrated the model against two representative formulations: a rapid release patch of naloxone and a sustained-release patch of levonorgestrel. The model was then applied to assess the relative significance of model parameters in governing systemic PK of drugs and obtain optimal design parameters to achieve therapeutically meaningful drug levels in a clinical setting. We identified the importance of drug loading fraction, MN base radius, and MN height as the key control parameters responsible for drug PK.Clinical Relevance- Through the application of modeling and simulation, we can improve drug delivery from MN-based patches by identifying optimal design parameters to support the clinical translation of these novel drug delivery systems.
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Razzaghi M, Akbari M. The Effect of 3D Printing Tilt Angle on the Penetration of 3D-Printed Microneedle Arrays. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:1157. [PMID: 37374742 DOI: 10.3390/mi14061157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Microneedle arrays (MNAs) are emerging devices that are mainly used for drug delivery and diagnostic applications through the skin. Different methods have been used to fabricate MNAs. Recently developed fabrication methods based on 3D printing have many advantages compared to conventional fabrication methods, such as faster fabrication in one step and the ability to fabricate complex structures with precise control over their geometry, form, size, and mechanical and biological properties. Despite the several advantages that 3D printing offers for the fabrication of microneedles, their poor penetration capability into the skin should be improved. MNAs need a sharp needle tip to penetrate the skin barrier layer, the stratum corneum (SC). This article presents a method to improve the penetration of 3D-printed microneedle arrays by investigating the effect of the printing angle on the penetration force of MNAs. The penetration force needed to puncture the skin for MNAs fabricated using a commercial digital light processing (DLP) printer, with different printing tilt angles (0-60°), was measured in this study. The results showed that the minimum puncture force was achieved using a 45° printing tilt angle. Using this angle, the puncture force was reduced by 38% compared to MNAs printed with a tilting angle of 0°. We also identified that a tip angle of 120° resulted in the smallest penetration force needed to puncture the skin. The outcomes of the research show that the presented method can significantly improve the penetration capability of 3D-printed MNAs into the skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmood Razzaghi
- Laboratory for Innovations in Microengineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Mohsen Akbari
- Laboratory for Innovations in Microengineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovations, Los Angeles, CA 90050, USA
- Biotechnology Center, Silesian University of Technology, Akademicka 2A, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
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Fitaihi R, Abukhamees S, Orlu M, Craig DQM. Transscleral Delivery of Dexamethasone-Loaded Microparticles Using a Dissolving Microneedle Array. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1622. [PMID: 37376071 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15061622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Microneedles (MNs) have attracted considerable interest as a means of ocular drug delivery, a challenging delivery route due to the limitations imposed by the various biological barriers associated with this organ. In this study, a novel ocular drug delivery system was developed by formulating a dissolvable MN array containing dexamethasone-loaded PLGA microparticles for scleral drug deposition. The microparticles serve as a drug reservoir for controlled transscleral delivery. The MNs displayed sufficient mechanical strength to penetrate the porcine sclera. Dexamethasone (Dex) scleral permeation was significantly higher than in topically instilled dosage forms. The MN system was able to distribute the drug through the ocular globe, with 19.2% of the administered Dex detected in the vitreous humour. Additionally, images of the sectioned sclera confirmed the diffusion of fluorescent-labelled microparticles within the scleral matrix. The system therefore represents a potential approach for minimally invasive Dex delivery to the posterior of the eye, which lends itself to self-administration and hence high patient convenience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawan Fitaihi
- Research Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK
| | - Shorooq Abukhamees
- Research Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK
| | - Mine Orlu
- Research Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK
| | - Duncan Q M Craig
- Research Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University College London, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK
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Padmakumar S, Amiji MM. Long-Acting Therapeutic Delivery Systems for the Treatment of Gliomas. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 197:114853. [PMID: 37149040 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114853] [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: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Despite the emergence of cutting-edge therapeutic strategies and tremendous progress in research, a complete cure of glioma remains elusive. The heterogenous nature of tumor, immunosuppressive state and presence of blood brain barrier are few of the major obstacles in this regard. Long-acting depot formulations such as injectables and implantables are gaining attention for drug delivery to brain owing to their ease in administration and ability to elute drug locally for extended durations in a controlled manner with minimal toxicity. Hybrid matrices fabricated by incorporating nanoparticulates within such systems help to enhance pharmaceutical advantages. Utilization of long-acting depots as monotherapy or in conjunction with existing strategies rendered significant survival benefits in many preclinical studies and some clinical trials. The discovery of novel targets, immunotherapeutic strategies and alternative drug administration routes are now coupled with several long-acting systems with an ultimate aim to enhance patient survival and prevent glioma recurrences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smrithi Padmakumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115
| | - Mansoor M Amiji
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115; Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115.
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McNamee M, Wong S, Guy O, Sharma S. Microneedle technology for potential SARS-CoV-2 vaccine delivery. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023:1-16. [PMID: 37128730 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2209718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Microneedle fabrication was conceptualised in the 1970s as devices for painless transdermal drug delivery. The last two decades have seen considerable research and financial investment in this area with SARS-CoV-2 and other vaccines catalysing their application to in vivo intradermal vaccine delivery. Microneedle arrays have been fabricated in different shapes, geometries, formats, and out of different materials. AREAS COVERED The recent pandemic has offered microneedle platforms the opportunity to be employed as a vehicle for SARS-CoV-2 vaccine administration. The various modes of vaccination delivery and the potential of microneedle arrays-based vaccines will be presented, with a specific focus placed on recent SARS-CoV-2 research. The advantages of microneedle-based vaccine administration, in addition to the major hurdles to their en masse implementation, will be examined. EXPERT OPINION Considering the widely acknowledged disadvantages of current vaccine delivery, such as anxiety, pain, and the requirement for professional administration, a large shift in this research sphere is imminent. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has catalysed the development of alternate vaccination platforms, working to avoid the requirement for mass vaccination centres. As microneedle vaccine patches are transitioning through clinical study phases, research will be required to ready this technology for a more mass production environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan McNamee
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering , Fabian Way, Bay Campus, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
| | - Shuyi Wong
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering , Fabian Way, Bay Campus, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
| | - Owen Guy
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering , Fabian Way, Bay Campus, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
| | - Sanjiv Sharma
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering , Fabian Way, Bay Campus, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
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Manimaran R, Dinesh Patel K, Maurice Lobo V, Suresh Kumbhar S, Vamsi Krishna Venuganti V. Buccal mucosal application of dissolvable microneedle patch containing photosensitizer provides effective localized delivery and phototherapy against oral carcinoma. Int J Pharm 2023; 640:122991. [PMID: 37120122 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.122991] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
The effectiveness of phototherapy using photosensitizers is limited by the challenges in their delivery at the site of irradiation. Here, we demonstrate the localized application of a photosensitizer-loaded microneedle patch for effective photodynamic and photothermal therapy in oral carcinoma. Indocyanine green (ICG) was studied as a photosensitizer for its effect on oral carcinoma, FaDu cells. Different parameters including concentration, near-infrared (NIR) laser irradiation intensity and irradiation time were optimized while measuring temperature increase and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in FaDu cells. A dissolvable microneedle (DMN) patch made of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose and sodium alginate was fabricated by the micromolding technique. DMN showed sufficient mechanical strength for insertion in the excised porcine buccal mucosa. DMN dissolved within 30 s in phosphate buffer and 30 min in the excised buccal mucosa. Confocal microscopy studies revealed DMN penetration up to a depth of 300 µm within the buccal mucosa. ICG-DMN applied on the back of the rat was found to be localized at the application site before and after irradiation using an 808 nm NIR laser. ICG-DMN was applied on the FaDu xenografted tumor model in athymic nude mice. The localized temperature increase and ROS generation significantly (P<0.05) decreased the tumor volume after ICG-DMN application compared with the control group. In conclusion, DMN can be developed for the localized administration of photosensitizers for phototherapy in oral carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghuraman Manimaran
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Hyderabad, 500078, Telangana, India
| | - Kinnari Dinesh Patel
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Hyderabad, 500078, Telangana, India
| | - Venessa Maurice Lobo
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Hyderabad, 500078, Telangana, India
| | - Shubham Suresh Kumbhar
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Hyderabad, 500078, Telangana, India
| | - Venkata Vamsi Krishna Venuganti
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Hyderabad, 500078, Telangana, India.
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Prabahar K, Uthumansha U, Elsherbiny N, Qushawy M. Enhanced Skin Permeation and Controlled Release of β-Sitosterol Using Cubosomes Encrusted with Dissolving Microneedles for the Management of Alopecia. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16040563. [PMID: 37111320 PMCID: PMC10142597 DOI: 10.3390/ph16040563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of synthetic medication for treating alopecia is restricted because of systemic exposure and related negative effects. Beta-sitosterol (β-ST), a natural chemical, has lately been studied for its potential to promote hair development. The cubosomes with dissolving microneedles (CUBs-MND) created in this study may be a useful starting point for the creation of a sophisticated dermal delivery system for β-ST. Cubosomes (CUBs) were prepared by the emulsification method, using glyceryl monooleate (GMO) as a lipid polymer. CUBs were loaded with dissolving microneedles (MND) fabricated with HA and a PVP-K90 matrix. An ex vivo skin permeation study and an in vivo hair growth efficacy test of β-ST were performed with both CUB and CUB-MND. The average particle size of the CUBs was determined to be 173.67 ± 0.52 nm, with a low polydispersity index (0.3) and a high zeta potential value that prevents the aggregate formation of dispersed particles. When compared to CUBs alone, CUBs-MND displayed higher permeating levels of β-ST at all-time points. In the animals from the CUB-MND group, significant hair development was observed. According to the results of the current investigation, CUBs that integrate dissolving microneedles of β-ST are superior in terms of transdermal skin penetration and activity for the treatment of alopecia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kousalya Prabahar
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ubaidulla Uthumansha
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Crescent School of Pharmacy, B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600048, India
| | - Nehal Elsherbiny
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Mona Qushawy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sinai University, Alarish 45511, North Sinai, Egypt
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Mo R, Zhang H, Xu Y, Wu X, Wang S, Dong Z, Xia Y, Zheng D, Tan Q. Transdermal drug delivery via microneedles to mediate wound microenvironment. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 195:114753. [PMID: 36828300 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Cutaneous wound healing is a complex process, while modulating the wound microenvironment has become an essential therapeutic goal. In clinics, advanced dressings or dermal templates can promote wound healing but their ability in mediating wound microenvironment is limited. In the last decade, microneedle (MN) array patches have emerged as a new class of wound dressings. These dressings enable non-invasive transdermal and precise medication delivery. Combined with smart materials, MN additionally allows real-time monitoring of wound site markers such as inflammatory factors, oxygen levels, vascularization, pH and temperature, etc., while releasing therapeutic molecules responsively to the wound site. In this review, the MN-based strategies were reviewed for modulating wound microenvironment via introducing the main characteristics of the wound microenvironment and various types of MN-based delivery systems. Additionally, the progress and future trends in the application of MNs in mediating wound microenvironments are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Mo
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321, Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321, Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - Ye Xu
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321, Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - Xiangyi Wu
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321, Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - Shuqin Wang
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321, Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - Zheng Dong
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321, Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - Yangmin Xia
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321, Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China
| | - Dongfeng Zheng
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321, Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China.
| | - Qian Tan
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, No. 321, Zhongshan Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China; Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Anqing Shihua Hospital, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Group, Anqing 246002, China.
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Priya S, Tomar Y, Desai VM, Singhvi G. Enhanced skin drug delivery using dissolving microneedles: a potential approach for the management of skin disorders. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023:1-18. [PMID: 36893450 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2190095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION For decades, finding effective long-term or disease-modifying treatments for skin disorders has been a major focus of scientists. The conventional drug delivery systems showed poor efficacy with high doses and are associated with side effects, which lead to challenges in adherence to therapy. Therefore, to overcome the limitations of conventional drug delivery systems, drug delivery research has focused on topical, transdermal, and intradermal drug delivery systems. Among all, the dissolving microneedles have gained attention with a new range of advantages of drug delivery in skin disorders such as breaching skin barriers with minimal discomfort and its simplicity of application to the skin, which allows patients to administer it themselves. AREAS COVERED This review highlighted the insights into dissolving microneedles for different skin disorders in detail. Additionally, it also provides evidence for its effective utilization in the treatment of various skin disorders. The clinical trial status and patents for dissolving microneedles for the management of skin disorders are also covered. EXPERT OPINION The current review on dissolving microneedles for skin drug delivery is accentuating the breakthroughs achieved so far in the management of skin disorders. The output of the discussed case studies anticipated that dissolving microneedles can be a novel drug delivery strategy for the long-term treatment of skin disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakshi Priya
- Industrial Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani, Pilani Campus, India
| | - Yashika Tomar
- Industrial Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani, Pilani Campus, India
| | - Vaibhavi Meghraj Desai
- Industrial Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani, Pilani Campus, India
| | - Gautam Singhvi
- Industrial Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani, Pilani Campus, India
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Parhi R. Recent advances in 3D printed microneedles and their skin delivery application in the treatment of various diseases. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2023.104395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
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Rapidly Dissolving Microneedles for the Delivery of Steroid-Loaded Nanoparticles Intended for the Treatment of Inflammatory Skin Diseases. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020526. [PMID: 36839849 PMCID: PMC9967926 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug delivery through the skin has immense advantages compared to other routes of administration and offers an optimal way to treat inflammatory skin diseases, where corticosteroids are the cornerstone of topical therapy. Still, their therapeutic efficiency is limited due to inadequate skin permeability, potential side effects, and reduced patient compliance. To overcome these drawbacks, we propose a drug delivery system consisting of dexamethasone (DEX)-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) incorporated in sodium alginate (SA) microneedles (MNs) as a minimally invasive dosage form for controlled drug release. Drug-loaded PLGA NPs were prepared by a nanoprecipitation method with a high encapsulation yield. They exhibited a controlled release pattern over 120 h. A modified vacuum-deposition micromolding method was used to load the obtained DEX-NPs into the tips of dissolving MNs. The NP-MNs showed improved insertion capabilities into the skin-simulant parafilm model and enhanced mechanical strength when tested against different static forces compared to their counterparts (SA-MNs). The results of an MN dissolution study following application to ex vivo chicken skin and agarose gel indicate that the NP-loaded segments of MNs dissolve within 15 s, in which the NPs are released into the skin. Taken together, the incorporation of DEX-NPs into SA-MNs could be a promising approach to bypass the limitations of conventional topical treatment of skin diseases, allowing for self-administration, increased patient compliance, and controlled drug release.
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Wang T, Gao H, Wang D, Zhang C, Hu K, Zhang H, Lin J, Chen X. Stem cell-derived exosomes in the treatment of melasma and its percutaneous penetration. Lasers Surg Med 2023; 55:178-189. [PMID: 36573453 DOI: 10.1002/lsm.23628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Melasma is a refractory skin disease due to its complex pathogenesis and difficult treatment. Studies have found that human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (hUCMSC-Exos) could serve as a novel cell-free therapeutic strategy in regenerative and esthetic medicine. It could potentially treat melasma, but the skin barrier is a challenge. In this study, we aim to explore the safety and efficacy of hUCMSC-Exos in the treatment of melasma and the means to promote its percutaneous penetration. MATERIALS AND METHODS In the animal study about the effect of penetration, percutaneous penetration of PKH67-labeled hUCMSC-Exos was studied under microneedles, 1565 nm nonablative fractional laser (NAFL), and a plasma named Peninsula Blue Aurora Shumin Master (PBASM) treatments, observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy. In the clinical application study, 60 patients with melasma treated in our department were divided into four groups. NAFL combined with normal saline treatment was used for Group A. Microneedles, NAFL, and PBASM combined with hUCMSC-Exos treatments were used for Groups B, C, and D, respectively. Each patient received four treatments at 1-month intervals. Assessments were done using the degree of pain posttreatment, melasma area and severity score, improvement rate, physician global assessment score, satisfaction, and complications. RESULTS In the animal study about the effect of penetration, hUCMSC-Exos can penetrate the deep dermis under microneedles, NAFL, and PBASM treatments. In the clinical application study, compared with Group A, Groups B, C, and D showed significantly improved therapeutic effect and patient satisfaction (p < 0.05), and there was no significant difference among Groups B, C, and D.(p > 0.05). Patients in Group B reported higher pain levels than those in the other three groups (p < 0.05); the treatment experience of patients in Group D was better. CONCLUSION hUCMSC-Exos can improve the symptoms of melasma safely and effectively. Compared with microneedles, NAFL and PBASM can also achieve a good effect toward promoting penetration. These findings are worthy of exploration and clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Hangqi Gao
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Dezhi Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Chaoyu Zhang
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Kailun Hu
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Haoruo Zhang
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jian Lin
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaosong Chen
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
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Enggi CK, Satria MT, Nirmayanti N, Usman JT, Nur JF, Asri RM, Djide NJN, Permana AD. Improved transdermal delivery of valsartan using combinatorial approach of polymeric transdermal hydrogels and solid microneedles: an ex vivo proof of concept investigation. JOURNAL OF BIOMATERIALS SCIENCE. POLYMER EDITION 2023; 34:334-350. [PMID: 36063003 DOI: 10.1080/09205063.2022.2121590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Valsartan (VAL) is used as a first-line agent to treat hypertension. However, VAL exhibits poor absorption and low bioavailability when administrated orally. To overcome these issues, VAL transdermal gel was developed in this study, where Carbopol was used as the gel matrices. Additionally, solid microneedles (Dermaroller®) with various needle lengths were combined with transdermal gel to improve its permeation across the stratum corneum as a skin barrier. Developed formulations were further evaluated for various parameters, including pH, viscosity, spreadability, extrudability, gel strength, drug content, ex vivo permeation, in vitro release, occlusivity, and hemolysis. The results showed that all formulations exhibited desired physical characteristics without any potential to cause toxicity. Moreover, this approach showed that using microneedles could significantly enhance the permeation of VAL up to 3 folds compared to untreated skin. The use of microneedles 1.5 mm was found to be the optimum combination to improve VA permeation without affecting skin integrity. As much as 1.69 ± 0.004 mg of VAL permeated after 8 h. Finally, it could be concluded that this work had successfully developed a new approach for VALS drug delivery and could potentially show a significant impact on the treatment of hypertension. Further in vivo work should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mega Tri Satria
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
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Qi Z, Yan Z, Tan G, Jia T, Geng Y, Shao H, Kundu SC, Lu S. Silk Fibroin Microneedles for Transdermal Drug Delivery: Where Do We Stand and How Far Can We Proceed? Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020355. [PMID: 36839676 PMCID: PMC9964088 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Microneedles are a patient-friendly technique for delivering drugs to the site of action in place of traditional oral and injectable administration. Silk fibroin represents an interesting polymeric biomaterial because of its mechanical properties, thermal stability, biocompatibility and possibility of control via genetic engineering. This review focuses on the critical research progress of silk fibroin microneedles since their inception, analyzes in detail the structure and properties of silk fibroin, the types of silk fibroin microneedles, drug delivery applications and clinical trials, and summarizes the future development trend in this field. It also proposes the future research direction of silk fibroin microneedles, including increasing drug loading doses and enriching drug loading types as well as exploring silk fibroin microneedles with stimulation-responsive drug release functions. The safety and effectiveness of silk fibroin microneedles should be further verified in clinical trials at different stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Qi
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Zheng Yan
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Guohongfang Tan
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Tianshuo Jia
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yiyu Geng
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Huiyan Shao
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Subhas C. Kundu
- 3Bs Research Group, I3Bs Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegrabilities, and Biomimetics, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, University of Minho, AvePark, Guimaraes, 4805-017 Barco, Portugal
| | - Shenzhou Lu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Modern Silk, College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-512-67061152
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Wang X, Liu K, Fu S, Wu X, Xiao L, Yang Y, Zhang Z, Lu Q. Silk Nanocarrier with Tunable Size to Improve Transdermal Capacity for Hydrophilic and Hydrophobic Drugs. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:74-82. [PMID: 36603189 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.2c00666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Transdermal drug delivery is an attractive option for multiple disease therapies as it reduces adverse reactions and improves patient compliance. Water-dispersible β-sheet rich silk nanofiber carriers have hydrophobic properties that benefit transdermal delivery but still show inferior transdermal capacities. Thus, hydrophobic silk nanofibers were fabricated to fine-tune their size and endow them with desirable transdermal delivery capacities. Silk nanocarrier length was shortened from 2000 nm to approximately 40 nm after ultrasonic treatment. In vitro human skin and in vivo animal studies revealed different transdermal behaviors for silk nanocarriers at different nanosizes. Silk nanocarriers passed slowly through the corneum without destroying the corneum structure. Improved transdermal capacity was achieved for smaller size carriers. Both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs could be loaded onto silk nanocarriers, suggesting a promising future for different disease therapies. No cytotoxicity and skin irritation were identified for silk nanocarriers, which strengthened their superiority as transdermal carriers. Therefore, silk nanocarriers <100 nm may promote the percutaneous absorption of active cargos for disease therapy and cosmetic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai200011, China
| | - Ke Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai200011, China
| | - Shibo Fu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai200011, China
| | - Xiaoqian Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Radiation Protection, Institutes for Translational Medicine, Soochow University, Suzhou215123, China
| | - Liying Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Radiation Protection, Institutes for Translational Medicine, Soochow University, Suzhou215123, China
| | - Yali Yang
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai200011, China.,Department of Laser and Aesthetic Medicine, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai200011, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai200011, China.,Department of Laser and Aesthetic Medicine, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai200011, China
| | - Qiang Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Radiation Protection, Institutes for Translational Medicine, Soochow University, Suzhou215123, China
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47
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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: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [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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Gao G, Zhang L, Li Z, Ma S, Ma F. Porous Microneedles for Therapy and Diagnosis: Fabrication and Challenges. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023; 9:85-105. [PMID: 36475572 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c01123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The use of microneedles (MNs), an innovative transdermal technology, enables efficient, convenient, painless, and controlled-release drug delivery. Porous microneedles (pMNs), special MNs with abundant interconnected pores that can produce capillary action, are gaining increasing attention as a novel MNs technology. pMNs can actively adsorb bioactive ingredients from solutions of drugs or vaccines for in vivo delivery or from interstitial skin fluids (ISFs) for wearable and point-of-care testing (POCT) products. Different pore sizes and porosities of pMNs can be achieved with different materials and preparation processes, which makes the application of pMNs adaptable to multiple scenarios. In addition, easier and faster detection will be accomplished by the smart combination of pMNs with other detection technologies. This paper aims to summarize the recent research progress of pMNs, focusing on the influence of various materials and their corresponding preparation methods on its structure and function display, discussing the key issues and looking forward to the future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangzhi Gao
- Laboratory of Biologics and Biomaterials, College of Pharmacy, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing 313216, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Laboratory of Biologics and Biomaterials, College of Pharmacy, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing 313216, China
| | - Zhipeng Li
- Laboratory of Biologics and Biomaterials, College of Pharmacy, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing 313216, China
| | - Shichao Ma
- Laboratory of Biologics and Biomaterials, College of Pharmacy, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing 313216, China
| | - Fengsen Ma
- Laboratory of Biologics and Biomaterials, College of Pharmacy, Zhejiang University of Technology, Deqing 313216, China.,The Institute for Frontiers and Interdisciplinary Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, No. 18, Chaowang Road, Hangzhou 310014, China
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Lechuga Y, Kandel G, Miguel JA, Martinez M. Development of an Automated Design Tool for FEM-Based Characterization of Solid and Hollow Microneedles. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:133. [PMID: 36677194 PMCID: PMC9861112 DOI: 10.3390/mi14010133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Microneedle design for biomedical applications, such as transdermal drug delivery, vaccination and transdermal biosensing, has lately become a rapidly growing research field. In this sense, finite element analysis has been extendedly used by microneedle designers to determine the most suitable structural parameters for their prototypes, and also to predict their mechanical response and efficiency during the insertion process. Although many proposals include computer-aided tools to build geometrical models for mechanical analysis, there is a lack of software utilities intended to automate the design process encompassing geometrical modeling, simulation setup and postprocessing of results. This work proposes a novel MATLAB-based design tool for microneedle arrays that permits personalized selection of the basic characteristics of a mechanical model. The tool automatically exports the selected options to an ANSYS batch file, including instructions to run a static and a linear buckling analysis. Later, the subsequent simulation results can be retrieved for on-screen display and potential postprocessing. In addition, this work reviews recent proposals (2018-2022) about finite element model characterization of microneedles to establish the minimum set of features that any tool intended for automating a design process should provide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yolanda Lechuga
- Group of Microelectronics Engineering, Department of Electronics Technology, Systems Engineering and Automation, Universidad de Cantabria, 39005 Santander, Spain
| | - Gregoire Kandel
- Group of Microelectronics Engineering, Department of Electronics Technology, Systems Engineering and Automation, Universidad de Cantabria, 39005 Santander, Spain
- ENSEIRB-MATMECA, Bordeaux INP, CEDEX, 33402 Talence, France
| | - Jose Angel Miguel
- Group of Microelectronics Engineering, Department of Electronics Technology, Systems Engineering and Automation, Universidad de Cantabria, 39005 Santander, Spain
| | - Mar Martinez
- Group of Microelectronics Engineering, Department of Electronics Technology, Systems Engineering and Automation, Universidad de Cantabria, 39005 Santander, Spain
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50
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Mechanistic modeling-guided optimization of microneedle-based skin patch for rapid transdermal delivery of naloxone for opioid overdose treatment. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2023; 13:320-338. [PMID: 35879533 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-022-01202-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Naloxone, an FDA-approved opioid inhibitor, used to reverse opioid overdose complications has up till date faced challenges associated with its delivery. Limitations include the use of invasive delivery forms and the need for frequent redosing due to its short half-life. The goal of the current study was to design a transdermal rapidly dissolving polymeric microneedle (MN) patch with delivery and pharmacokinetic properties comparable to that seen with the commercially available NAL products, eliminating their delivery limitations. Patches of varying dimensions (500 µm; 100 array,800 µm; 100array, and 600 µm; 225 array) were fabricated to evaluate the effect of increasing MN length, and density (no. of needles/unit area) on drug release. Drug dose in each of these patches was 17.89 ± 0.23 mg, 17.2 ± 0.77 mg, and 17.8 ± 1.01 mg, respectively. Furthermore, the insertion efficiency of each of the MN patches was 94 ± 4.8%, 90.6 ± 1.69%, and 96 ± 1.29%, respectively. Compared to passive permeation, a reduced lag time of about 5-15 min was observed with a significant drug flux of 15.09 ± 7.68 g[Formula: see text]/cm2/h seen in the first 1 h (p < 0.05) with the array of 100 needles (500 µm long). Over 24 h, a four and ten-fold increase in permeation was seen with the longer length and larger density MN patch, respectively, when compared to the 500 µm (100 array) patch. Model simulations and analyses revealed the significance of needle base diameter and needle count in improving systemic pharmacokinetics of NAL.
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