Spotlights on Microneedles Drug Delivery Devices as Multifunctional Tool in Biomedicine. Current Insight, Challenges and Role of Artificial Intelligence

The use of transdermal route improves the effectiveness of loaded drugs while decreasing the relative side effects anticipated from other administered routes e.g. oral route. Stratum corneum acts as key barrier in drug delivery via skin which restrict the permeation of conventional topical formulations. This review focusing on the use of modern technologies for transdermal drug delivery utilizing microneedles and nanoneedles as efficient, and non-invasive drug delivery devices compared with conventional formulations. Different categories have discussed in this review including microneedle techniques categorizing into solid, hollow, dissolving, and coated microneedles and different materials used for microneedle manufacturing including metals, inorganic compounds, and polymers. Techniques involved for medication delivery and those involved in microneedle fabrication regarding the shape, materials used, and the required properties of finished product. After fabrication, it is crucial to mechanically evaluate microneedles to ensure sufficient mechanical strength and performance for precise and effective delivery of drugs. Comparison between nanoneedles and microneedles as well as their recent applications are also discussed. Certain emphasize is also highlighted regarding the role of artificial intelligence, current challenges, future directions and clinical translation