Exploiting Unique Features of Microneedles to Modulate Immunity
June 2023
in “
Advanced Materials
”
TLDR Microneedles offer a promising, painless, and efficient way to deliver vaccines and therapies directly to the skin.
Microneedle arrays (MNAs) present a promising advancement in vaccine and immunotherapy delivery by targeting skin-resident immune cells, enhancing both B- and T-cell-mediated responses, and allowing for precise control over drug release. They offer significant public health benefits, such as improved vaccine stability, self-application, and reduced infection risks, making them particularly valuable in areas with limited medical access. MNAs have demonstrated superior efficacy in preclinical studies for various diseases, including viral infections, cancer, and allergies, by enhancing immune responses and reducing off-target effects. Despite challenges in manufacturing and formulation stability, MNAs hold potential for revolutionizing vaccine delivery and immunotherapy, with ongoing research needed to address current limitations and expand clinical applications.