Micro/nanofluidic devices for drug delivery

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Micro/nanofluidic systems are gaining traction for targeted and controlled drug delivery.
• These platforms are categorized into in vitro, in situ, and in vivo systems based on application.
• In vitro systems align with lab-on-a-chip technology for cell culture and drug efficacy studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present cutting-edge advances in the design and fabrication of in vitro microfluidic drug delivery systems.
• To highlight applications in cellular and tissue drug delivery for therapeutic index determination.
• To briefly discuss in situ drug delivery platforms, including microneedle technology.

Main Methods:

• Focus on the design and fabrication techniques for in vitro microfluidic devices.
• Utilizing microfluidic platforms for controlled administration of drugs at cellular and tissue levels.
• Reviewing advancements in microneedle technology for in situ drug delivery.

Main Results:

• In vitro microfluidic systems demonstrate potential for personalized medicine through precise drug administration.
• These systems enable detailed studies of drug effects at the cellular and tissue levels.
• Microneedles represent a promising approach for painless and controlled transdermal drug and vaccine delivery.

Conclusions:

• Micro/nanofluidic systems, particularly in vitro platforms, are advancing targeted and controlled drug delivery.
• These technologies hold significant promise for personalized medicine and drug development.
• Further development of in situ systems like microneedles could revolutionize drug administration.