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Updated: Nov 15, 2025

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Hollow Microneedle-based Sensor for Multiplexed Transdermal Electrochemical Sensing
Published on: June 1, 2012
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Hollow microneedles: A perspective in biomedical applications.
Álvaro Cárcamo-Martínez1, Brónach Mallon1, Juan Domínguez-Robles1
1School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
International Journal of Pharmaceutics
|March 7, 2021
Summary
Hollow microneedles (MN) offer a promising approach for drug and vaccine delivery, and biological monitoring by penetrating the skin barrier. This review highlights their fabrication, applications, and market potential.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Microneedles (MN) are advanced devices for transdermal drug delivery and fluid extraction.
- They bypass the stratum corneum, enabling access to viable skin layers.
- Only hollow MN have achieved market approval as medical devices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review hollow microneedle (hMN) fabrication methods and materials.
- To explore hMN applications in drug delivery, vaccine delivery, and monitoring.
- To discuss novel fabrication techniques and market prospects for hMN.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of microneedle research.
- Analysis of fabrication techniques for hollow microneedles.
- Evaluation of current and potential applications of hollow microneedles.
Main Results:
- Hollow microneedles are the only type currently approved for pharmaceutical use.
- Various materials and fabrication methods exist for hMN.
- hMN show significant potential in drug delivery, vaccine administration, and biosensing.
Conclusions:
- Hollow microneedles represent a significant advancement in transdermal delivery and monitoring.
- Further innovation in fabrication and application is expected to drive market growth.
- hMN are poised for broader clinical and commercial adoption.

