Magneto-Responsive Microneedle Robots for Intestinal Macromolecule Delivery

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Drug Delivery Systems
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Oral administration is preferred but faces challenges with macromolecule absorption due to gastrointestinal barriers.
• Efficient delivery of large molecules like insulin orally remains a significant hurdle in pharmaceutical research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel magneto-responsive microneedle robots for efficient oral delivery of macromolecules.
• To overcome gastrointestinal barriers and enhance macromolecule absorption through targeted delivery.

Main Methods:

• A multistage 3D fabrication strategy was used to create microneedle robots with magnetic substrates, separable connections, and tips.
• Robots were encapsulated in enteric capsules for oral administration and targeted release in the small intestine.
• Magnetic fields guided microneedle robot orientation and insertion into the small intestinal wall for drug delivery.

Main Results:

• The microneedle robots successfully oriented to the small intestinal wall and delivered encapsulated actives under magnetic field control.
• The separable connection degraded, allowing microneedle tips to remain for sustained drug release while the magnetic substrate was safely excreted.
• Oral delivery of insulin using these robots efficiently regulated blood glucose levels in pigs.

Conclusions:

• Magneto-responsive microneedle robots offer a promising new approach for oral administration of diverse macromolecules.
• This technology has the potential to significantly advance oral drug delivery, particularly for biologics and peptides.
• The study demonstrates a practical and effective method for overcoming oral delivery challenges for large molecules.