Rocket-Like Microneedle Patch for Sustained Hormone Therapy in Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) remains a significant global health challenge, necessitating the development of advanced therapeutic strategies. This study introduces a rocket-like microneedle patch (RLMNP) as a dual-layer drug delivery system for sustained hormone therapy in PCa. RLMNP integrates a rapid-release layer, employing the pH-responsive zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) to encapsulate bicalutamide (CDX), and a sustained-release layer comprising an alginate-tyramine (Alg-Tyr) hydrogel loaded with goserelin. The dual mechanism synergistically targets PCa by blocking androgen receptor signaling and suppressing androgen synthesis. RLMNP demonstrates robust mechanical properties, efficient skin penetration, and controlled drug release profiles. In vivo studies highlight its remarkable efficacy in reducing tumor volume, extending survival (from 34 to 46 days), and mitigating side effects in PCa models. Furthermore, this painless, self-administered platform addresses key limitations of current hormone therapies, including low patient compliance and treatment-associated discomfort. By combining state-of-the-art microneedle technology and a dual-action therapeutic approach, RLMNP establishes a promising paradigm for PCa management. This innovation not only improves therapeutic outcomes but also sets the stage for broader applications of microneedle-based transdermal drug delivery in oncology.