3D Printed Microheater Sensor-Integrated, Drug-Encapsulated Microneedle Patch System for Pain Management

Abstract

Microneedle patch device has been widely utilized for transdermal drug delivery in pain management, but is challenged by accurate control of drug release and subsequent diffusion to human body. The recent emerging wearable electronics that could be integrated with microneedle devices offers a facile approach to address such a challenge. Here a 3D printed microheater integrated drug-encapsulated microneedle patch system for drug delivery is presented. The ink solution comprised of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with mass concentration of up to 45% is prepared and used to print crack-free stretchable microheaters on substrates with a broad range of materials and geometric curves. The adhesion strength of printed microheater on microneedle patch in elevated temperatures are measured to evaluate their integration performance. Assessments of encapsulated drug release into rats skin are confirmed by examining degradation of microneedles, skin morphologies, and released fluorescent signals. Results and demonstrations established here creates a new opportunity for developing sensor controlled smart microneedle patch systems by integrating with wearable electronics, potentially useful in clinic and biomedical research.