Comprehensive Chemical, Morphological, Thermal, And Biological Characterization Of Agave Tequilana Extract And Chitosan-Based Dissolving Microneedle Arrays

This study investigates chitosan-based dissolving microneedle arrays incorporating Agave tequilana root extract, revealing that the extract's phytochemical composition, dominated by phenolic acids, affects microneedle geometry and material degradation. The microneedles retained antioxidant activity and inhibitory effects against tyrosinase and hyaluronidase, though collagenase inhibition decreased, especially at 0.25% extract concentration. The arrays showed biocompatibility with HaCaT keratinocytes and selective cytotoxicity against A375 melanoma cells. The research highlights the importance of extract loading on microneedle structure and bioactivity, suggesting further studies on mechanical performance and skin permeation are needed.