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346
Dissolving Microneedle Patches for Dermal Vaccination.
M Leone1, J Mönkäre1, J A Bouwstra2
1Division of Drug Delivery Technology, Cluster BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, the Netherlands.
Pharmaceutical Research
|July 19, 2017
Summary
Dissolving microneedles offer a painless vaccine delivery method by releasing antigens directly into the skin's immune cells. This review covers fabrication, characterization, and early clinical trials of these innovative microneedle vaccine patches.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Immunology
- Materials Science
Background:
- The skin's accessibility and rich immune cell network make it ideal for vaccine delivery.
- Conventional needles present challenges like pain, needle-stick injuries, and reuse concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review dissolving microneedle technology for enhanced vaccine delivery.
- To discuss fabrication, characterization, antigen stability, immunogenicity, and clinical development.
Main Methods:
- Focus on dissolving microneedles that release antigens upon skin penetration.
- Review of microneedle patch fabrication techniques and challenges.
- Discussion of characterization methods and antigen stability.
Main Results:
- Dissolving microneedles offer a promising alternative to conventional needles for vaccination.
- Antigen stability and immunogenicity in microneedle formulations are key considerations.
- Early clinical development shows potential for microneedle-based vaccines.
Conclusions:
- Dissolving microneedles represent a significant advancement in transdermal vaccine delivery.
- Further research and clinical trials are essential to realize the full potential of this technology.
