Microneedle-based drug delivery systems for transdermal route

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Dermatology
• Pharmaceutics

Background:

• Transdermal drug delivery is limited by the skin's natural barrier function.
• The stratum corneum (SC) presents a significant obstacle for delivering hydrophilic drugs and macromolecules.
• Minimally invasive techniques are needed to overcome skin penetration challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current advancements in microneedle (MN)-based transdermal drug delivery.
• To explore the fabrication, design, and application of microscale devices for enhanced skin permeation.
• To discuss the clinical safety and efficacy of microneedle technology.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of microneedles (MNs) using microelectronics industry tools.
• Development of MNs with diverse sizes, shapes, and materials.
• In vitro and in vivo studies to assess skin penetration and drug delivery efficacy.

Main Results:

• Microneedles (MNs) effectively bypass the stratum corneum (SC) barrier.
• MNs significantly increase skin permeability for hydrophilic drugs and macromolecules.
• Reduced pain and tissue trauma compared to conventional needles, with controlled delivery.

Conclusions:

• Microneedle technology represents a promising advancement in noninvasive transdermal drug delivery.
• MNs enable the delivery of challenging molecules, expanding therapeutic options.
• Further research and clinical trials are essential to fully realize the potential of MNs.