Microneedle-based interstitial fluid extraction for drug analysis: Advances, challenges, and prospects

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Analytical Chemistry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Interstitial fluid (ISF) contains valuable drug and biomarker information, similar to blood.
• Traditional ISF extraction methods are complex, time-consuming, and require bulky equipment.
• Microneedle technology presents a promising alternative for minimally invasive ISF sampling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advancements in drug analysis utilizing microneedle-assisted ISF extraction.
• To explore the potential of microneedles for simplified and efficient ISF sampling.
• To discuss future opportunities and challenges in this field.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on microneedle-based ISF extraction techniques.
• Analysis of different microneedle mechanisms for ISF sampling.
• Examination of integrated microneedle-sensor systems for in situ analysis.

Main Results:

• Microneedles are effective for ISF extraction, overcoming limitations of traditional methods.
• Integration with sensors allows for real-time, in situ monitoring of compounds in ISF.
• Wearable devices incorporating microneedles enable combined monitoring and drug delivery for dose adjustment.

Conclusions:

• Microneedle-assisted ISF extraction is a viable and advancing technology for drug analysis.
• This approach offers potential for personalized medicine through real-time monitoring and dose modification.
• Further research is needed to address challenges and fully realize the potential of microneedle technology in ISF analysis.