Microneedle devices and methods of manufacture and use thereof
First Claim
1. A device comprising one or more microneedles which are formed using a microfabricated mold.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Microneedle devices are provided for transport of therapeutic and biological molecules across tissue barriers and for use as microflameholders. In a preferred embodiment for transport across tissue, the microneedles are formed of a biodegradable polymer. Methods of making these devices, which can include hollow and/or porous microneedles, are also provided. A preferred method for making a microneedle includes forming a micromold having sidewalls which define the outer surface of the microneedle, electroplating the sidewalls to form the hollow microneedle, and then removing the micromold from the microneedle. In a preferred method of use, the microneedle device is used to deliver fluid material into or across a biological barrier from one or more chambers in fluid connection with at least one of the microneedles. The device preferably further includes a means for controlling the flow of material through the microneedles. Representative examples of these means include the use of permeable membranes, fracturable impermeable membranes, valves, and pumps.
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Citations
48 Claims
- 1. A device comprising one or more microneedles which are formed using a microfabricated mold.
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24. A method for making a microneedle, the method comprising forming a micromold having sidewalls which define a surface of the microneedle.
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34. The method of 24 wherein the micromold is shaped using a laser to selectively remove material.
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35. A device for delivery of material or energy into or across a biological barrier comprising one or more microneedles, wherein the microneedles are porous and/or comprise one or more hollow bores, and wherein the material or energy is delivered from one or more chambers in connection with at least one of the microneedles.
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40. A method of transporting a material or energy into or across a biological barrier comprising
inserting into the biological barrier one or more microneedles which are porous and/or comprises one or more hollow bores, and providing a driving force to transport the material or energy through at least one of the microneedles from one or more chambers which are in communication with at least one of the microneedles.
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44. A method for making hollow microneedles or microtubes comprising
forming a mask on a substrate, selectively removing the substrate to form the microneedle or microtube shape, and making a hollow bore in the microneedle or microtube shape.
Specification