Improving drug delivery through microneedle-treated skin
Official title: A translational approach to predicting small molecule drug permeation through microneedle-treated skin
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-11100346 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how tiny microneedles can help deliver medications through the skin more effectively, aiming to create better treatment options for people who need drugs that usually have a hard time getting through the skin barrier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | September 10, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $42,700 |
| NIH project number | 3R35GM149337-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11100346 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who require medications that are difficult to absorb through traditional methods, such as oral or intravenous routes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require transdermal drug delivery or those whose medications are already effectively delivered through existing methods may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how small molecule drugs can be effectively delivered through the skin using microneedles, which create tiny openings to enhance drug absorption. By studying both the properties of the drugs and the skin's response, the researchers aim to identify the best methods for delivering medications that typically struggle to penetrate the skin barrier. The approach includes both laboratory tests and studies in living organisms to understand how different factors affect drug delivery. Ultimately, the goal is to develop new microneedle dosage forms that can improve treatment options for various health conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and convenient drug delivery methods for patients, enhancing treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using microneedles for drug delivery, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brogden, Nicole K — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Brogden, Nicole K
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.