THERAPEUTIC MARKETS

Future Markets

Macromolecule Delivery through Microneedles

The field of anti-aging and medical aesthetics will be revolutionized by advancements in macromolecular delivery through electrokinesis. Transport is actively conducting studies in this new field of dermatology.

Iontophoresis can readily drive small, charged molecules through the stratum corneum, into the epidermal and dermal layers of the skin. However, larger molecules, including peptides, are more difficult to move. Many companies are working on ways to create pores through the stratum corneum. These include thermal and electrical poration and microneedles. Each of these techniques effectively breach the stratum corneum. However, these companies do only half of the job. After opening pores in the skin, drug or peptide-containing patches or sprays are applied and penetration is reliant upon passive diffusion or osmotic gradients.

Transport has designed and filed patents for the combination of iontophoresis and microporation. This combination product will use microneedles to first open pores through the skin and then employ iontophoresis to actively drive the drug or peptide into the dermal layer. Depth of the intradermal depot can be controlled by the length of the microneedle, limited to the areas above the pain receptors and capillaries.

The company has already demonstrated in pre-clinical studies the ability to deliver large amounts of calcitonin and other macromolecules through intact skin. Transport is pursuing collaborations with leading microneedle fabricators to advance this promising technology.