Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 20, 2026

Polymeric Microneedle Array Fabrication by Photolithography
Published on: November 17, 2015
Optically monitored drug delivery patch based on porous silicon and polymer microneedles
Principia Dardano1, Alessandro Caliò2, Jane Politi3
1National Research Council - Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131, Naples, Italy.
Abstract:
Fabrication and characterization of an optically monitored hybrid patch for local administration of drugs, based on polymeric micro-needles and a porous silicon free-standing membrane, are reported. The micro-needles are realized by an innovative photolithographic approach that allows fine tuning of geometrical parameters, using polyethylene glycol and a commercial photo-catalyzer. The porous silicon multilayer not only increases the storage of a relevant amount of the drug, but also offers a continuous, naked-eye monitoring of the drug delivery process. As a proof-of-concept experiment, we report our results on the release of a dye molecule (fluorescein, 332 Da) in a phosphate saline buffer.
Related Concept Videos
Site-Targeted Drug Delivery Systems: Polymeric Carriers
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Site-Targeted
Ophthalmic Drug Delivery Systems
Transdermal Drug Delivery Systems
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Rate-Programmed II
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Rate-Programmed I

