Engineering the Functional Expansion of Microneedles.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Microneedles (MNs) initially designed for drug delivery and fluid collection are advancing towards multifunctional platforms.
• Interdisciplinary engineering approaches are crucial for expanding MN capabilities.
• Current research integrates various engineering fields to enhance MN technology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the integration of engineering disciplines with microneedle technology.
• To highlight the emergent functionalities of MNs through interdisciplinary approaches.
• To inspire innovation in microneedle applications for biomedicine.

Main Methods:

• Review of interdisciplinary engineering approaches applied to microneedle technology.
• Summarization of advancements in electronics, electromagnetic, photonic, and mechanical engineering for MNs.
• Focus on functionalities arising from the intersection of MNs with complementary technologies.

Main Results:

• Electronics engineering enables biomonitoring, electrical stimulation, and closed-loop theranostics.
• Electromagnetic engineering offers remote and programmable therapeutic applications via induction.
• Photonic engineering enhances optical therapies and disease visualization.
• Mechanical engineering provides shape adaptability and programmable motion for MNs.

Conclusions:

• The integration of diverse engineering fields significantly expands the potential of microneedle technology.
• Multifunctional MN platforms offer novel solutions for diagnostics, therapeutics, and monitoring.
• Further research at the intersection of MNs and engineering is essential for biomedical innovation.