Next-Generation Bioinspired Microneedle Systems for Peptide Delivery: Bridging Design and Translational Medicine

Peptide-based therapies have transformed the management of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular problems, owing to their remarkable specificity, effectiveness, and low toxicity. Nonetheless, their therapeutic efficacy is frequently impeded by obstacles such as inadequate bioavailability, fast enzymatic breakdown, and restricted systemic stability. Conventional delivery strategies, such as oral and intravenous injection, have considerable constraints in efficiently transporting peptides to target locations. Transdermal drug delivery systems, especially microneedles (MNs) and bioinspired microneedles (BMNs), have garnered considerable interest as a less invasive and effective option to surmount these obstacles. MNs form microchannels in the epidermis and dermis, facilitating the direct administration of peptides into systemic circulation, hence dramatically improving peptide delivery across the skin. Recent improvements in BMNs technology have enhanced peptide delivery through better mechanical strength, skin contact, and controlled release. This paper mainly focuses on the importance of peptide drugs, the obstacles related to their administration, and the potential of BMNs for effective transdermal delivery. We emphasize current advancements in BMNs that improve peptide stability, permeability, and therapeutic effectiveness, facilitating their practical use in the treatment of chronic and acute disorders.