Use of Microneedle Device to Enhance Dermal Absorption: Study on Ex Vivo Human Skin

Abstract

Abstract The present study investigated the effects of microneedle roller device on dermal delivery of Rhodamine 123 on ex vivo human skin. The effect of microneedle treatment on transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was also evaluated. Permeation studies of Rhodamine 123 through full-thickness human skin were conducted using modified Franz diffusion cells. The results showed that TEWL increased with the number of passes of the roller device. In addition, results of the in vitro permeation studies revealed marked increase of the absorption and the distribution of Rhodamine 123 through microneedle-treated skin. The increase of skin absorption was dependent on needle length. Thus, microneedle roller device markedly increased the absorption and distribution of Rhodamine 123 in ex vivo human skin and could be suitable for clinical and preclinical use in order to enhance dermal delivery of test molecules.