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Hollow Microneedle-based Sensor for Multiplexed Transdermal Electrochemical Sensing
Published on: June 1, 2012
A colorimetric glucose sensor with gradient porous polyglycolic acid (PGA) microneedle array patch.
Yunfan Zhang1, Zifan Xue1, Boyu Qin2
1The Institute of Technological Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China.
Biomedical Microdevices
|May 26, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a novel microneedle sensor for rapid interstitial fluid glucose detection. The device offers accurate, colorimetric glucose monitoring for diabetes management.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Diabetes mellitus necessitates continuous glucose monitoring for effective management.
- Current glucose sensing methods often involve invasive procedures or complex instrumentation.
- Interstitial fluid (ISF) offers a viable alternative for non-invasive glucose detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel colorimetric glucose sensor utilizing a microneedle array patch (MAP) for ISF extraction and a functionalized film for sensing.
- To fabricate a gradient porous polyglycolic acid (PGA) microneedle array patch (MAP) with tunable porosity for efficient ISF extraction.
- To create a 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB)-functionalized porous PGA film for sensitive and accurate colorimetric glucose detection.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a gradient porous PGA MAP using a solvent volatility method, avoiding residual agents.
- Design of PGA MAP with gradient porosity (tip: 7.2%, substrate: 48.5%) for mechanical strength and hygroscopicity.
- Development of a TMB-functionalized porous PGA film via co-precipitation for uniform TMB distribution and enzyme immobilization.
- Evaluation of the sensor's performance, including ISF extraction capability and colorimetric response to glucose.
Main Results:
- The PGA MAP demonstrated successful skin puncture and absorbed 1.40 µL of liquid in 1 minute, with a compression failure force of 0.51 N.
- The TMB-functionalized PGA film prevented coffee ring effect and enabled uniform enzyme immobilization.
- The sensor exhibited a linear colorimetric response to glucose in the range of 2 to 10 mM, with a detection limit of 0.13 mM.
Conclusions:
- A novel, efficient, and accurate colorimetric glucose sensor for ISF has been developed.
- The gradient porous PGA MAP facilitates effective ISF extraction.
- The TMB-functionalized PGA film provides a stable and sensitive platform for glucose detection, promising for diabetes management.
