Smart patch systems for controlled drug delivery and sensing applications

Abstract

The skin provides a vast surface through which drugs can be administered and interstitial fluid can be extracted. Clinical approaches have remained largely unchanged for decades, with hypodermic needles presenting a number of issues and risks such as compliance, phobia and transmission of blood-borne pathogens. As such, there is a clear need for the development of transdermal drug delivery and sensing technologies that are suitable for the transition into mainstream use.

A range of fabrication techniques were explored and described for the purpose of creating ‘smart’ patch systems, encompassing discrete release mechanisms, microneedle arrays and biosensing technologies. The ability to provide repeated dosing, with distinct on / off states, actuated on-demand or in a fully autonomous manner paves the way for improvements in patient compliance. The low-cost, rapid production of microneedle arrays described, both solid and hollow in nature, provides the basis for disposable sensing and drug delivery platforms, whilst negating the complex microfabrication techniques typically associated with their manufacture.

Inclusion and deposition of palladium has been demonstrated for production of conductive microneedle arrays and nano-structures on a single carbon fibre substrate, resulting in sensors with sensitivity rivalling that of considerably more complex systems. The use of conductive microneedles have been investigated for use as a probe within an ostomy leak detection device, and its viability in human volunteer trials demonstrated.

Date of Award	May 2019
Original language	English
Supervisor	James Davis (Supervisor) & Pagona Papakonstantinou (Supervisor)