Research Projects

Polymeric micron-sized needles have great potential for transdermal insulin delivery, but their development faces challenges such as inhomogeneous distribution and insulin stabilizing function. This results in loss of dosage and inconsistent insulin release. Insulin also tends to stay in the microneedle, preventing it from entering the body. The retention rate depends on the insulin molecule's interaction with the surrounding polymeric material. To achieve low insulin retention, the polymer should be moderately repulsive to the insulin, while maintaining a balance between repulsive interaction and insulin stability. The polymer should also provide high compressive strength to pierce the stratum cornea and epidermis, allowing interstitial fluid (ISF) to enter the microneedle and dissolve in a controlled manner. The proposed research focuses on optimizing the formulation of the polymeric microneedle to achieve controlled insulin delivery. The impact of phase behavior and interstitial bodily fluid imbibition on insulin stability and release will be investigated. The optimized formulation will be prepared using micromoulding technique and characterized. The microneedles will be used to evaluate flow dynamics and dosage accuracy for successful insulin delivery in vitro.