What is the Origin of Microneedle Arrays?

This technology is a product of biomedical engineering and pharmaceutical science, combining micro- (small), needle (the physical structure), and array (the ordered arrangement of the structures). The innovation lies in the size of the needles, which is sufficient to breach the skin barrier but too short to stimulate the deeper pain receptors.

What is the Mechanism of Microneedle Arrays?

The mechanism relies on the physical creation of transient, microscopic channels through the stratum corneum, the primary barrier to drug absorption. By bypassing this layer, the arrays allow large molecules, such as peptide hormones and vaccines, to diffuse into the underlying viable epidermis and dermis, where they are absorbed into the systemic circulation. This delivery method enables precise dosing and avoids the gastrointestinal and hepatic first-pass metabolism associated with oral administration.

Microneedle Arrays ∞ Area

Microneedle Arrays

Meaning

Microneedle arrays are an advanced transdermal drug delivery technology, consisting of a patch containing numerous microscopic needles typically fabricated from polymers or metals. These needles are designed to be minimally invasive, painlessly penetrating the outermost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, to facilitate the efficient delivery of therapeutic agents. They offer a sophisticated alternative to traditional injection or topical methods for systemic drug absorption.