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Updated: Jul 2, 2025

Hollow Microneedle-based Sensor for Multiplexed Transdermal Electrochemical Sensing
Published on: June 1, 2012
Latest advances in glucose-responsive microneedle-based systems for transdermal insulin delivery
Miquel Martínez-Navarrete1, Alexandre Pérez-López2, Antonio José Guillot1
1Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
Abstract:
The development of a self-regulated minimally invasive system for insulin delivery can be considered as the holy grail in the field of diabetes mellitus. A delivery system capable of releasing insulin in response to blood glucose levels would significantly improve the quality of life of diabetic patients, eliminating the need for frequent finger-prick tests and providing better glycaemic control with lower risk of hypoglycaemia. In this context, the latest advances in glucose-responsive microneedle-based transdermal insulin delivery are here compiled with a thorough analysis of the delivery mechanisms and challenges lying ahead in their clinical translation. Two main groups of microneedle-based systems have been developed so far: glucose oxidase-containing and phenylboronic acid-containing systems. Both strategies in combination have also been tested and two other novel strategies are under development, namely electronic closed-loop and glucose transporter-based systems. Results from preclinical studies conducted using these different types of glucose-triggered release systems are comprehensively discussed. Altogether, this analysis from both a mechanistic and translational perspective will provide rationale and/or guidance for future trends in the research hotspot of glucose-responsive microneedle-based insulin delivery systems.
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