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Hollow Microneedle-based Sensor for Multiplexed Transdermal Electrochemical Sensing
Published on: June 1, 2012
Microneedle arrays allow lower microbial penetration than hypodermic needles in vitro
Ryan F Donnelly1, Thakur Raghu Raj Singh, Michael M Tunney
1School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK. r.donnelly@qub.ac.uk
Pharmaceutical Research
|September 17, 2009
Summary
Microneedle puncture significantly reduces microbial penetration compared to hypodermic needles, suggesting safer microneedle-based delivery systems. Further in vivo studies are recommended for clinical application.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Microbiology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Microneedle (MN) arrays are emerging as a promising technology for transdermal drug delivery.
- Assessing the risk of microbial contamination is crucial for the clinical translation of MN systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the ability of microorganisms to traverse microneedle-induced holes versus hypodermic needle punctures.
- To evaluate the potential for microbial infection following skin penetration by microneedles.
Main Methods:
- Utilized two in vitro models: Silescol membranes and excised porcine skin.
- Assessed microbial penetration using Candida albicans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus epidermidis.
- Quantified microbial load adhering to and traversing the barriers after puncture with microneedles or hypodermic needles.
Main Results:
- Microneedle puncture resulted in an order of magnitude lower microbial penetration through Silescol membranes compared to hypodermic needles.
- Microbial penetration through microneedle-punctured skin was significantly lower than through hypodermic needle-punctured skin, with no microorganisms crossing the viable epidermis.
- Higher microbial adherence was observed on microneedle arrays compared to hypodermic needles, though subsequent penetration was lower.
Conclusions:
- Microneedle puncture presents a lower risk of microbial penetration than hypodermic needle puncture.
- The findings suggest that microneedle arrays are unlikely to cause infection in immune-competent individuals under normal circumstances.
- Further in vivo animal studies are necessary to confirm safety for widespread clinical use, alongside considerations for sterile manufacturing and self-disabling materials.
