A wirelessly controlled fully implantable microsystem for nano-liter resolution inner ear drug delivery

Abstract

Site-directed and programmable drug delivery systems are important to leverage recent developments in protective and restorative biotherapies. Therapy development in the mouse model system requires advanced nano-liter precision implantable microsystems. Here, an implantable and scalable drug delivery system is presented consisting of a miniaturized, wirelessly controlled phase-change peristaltic micropump and a refillable microreservoir. 3D-printing technology has been used to fabricate the micropump around a microcatheter tubing on the backside of a printed circuit board. In vitro characterization results demonstrate nano-liter resolution control over the desired flow rates of 10-100 nL/min in the presence of backpressure 40× larger than experienced in the physiologic system. In vivo implantation results show consistency with previously published syringe pump results.