Conductive Microneedles: From Advanced Fabrication to Multifunctional Biomedical Applications.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Microneedles (MNs) are recognized for transdermal drug delivery.
• Incorporating functional materials (metals, carbon, ICPs) enhances MN electrical properties.
• This evolution creates multifunctional biomedical platforms from passive carriers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review conductive microneedles (MNs).
• Focus on materials, fabrication, and applications.
• Discuss clinical translation challenges and future prospects.

Main Methods:

• Review of conductive materials for MNs (metals, carbon-based, ICPs).
• Analysis of strategies for imparting conductivity.
• Examination of microfabrication techniques.
• Summary of applications in drug delivery, electrophysiology, and electrical stimulation.

Main Results:

• Conductive MNs establish high-quality electrical interfaces with subcutaneous tissues.
• Improved signal-to-noise ratio for bioelectrical signal acquisition.
• Enabled actively controlled drug release.
• Diverse applications in physiological monitoring, neural repair, and therapy.

Conclusions:

• Conductive MNs represent a significant functional evolution in biomedical technology.
• They offer enhanced capabilities for drug delivery and bioelectrical interfacing.
• Further development is needed for clinical translation and broader application.