Smart patches using microneedles - close-up (IMAGE)

Swansea University

Smart patches using microneedles - close-up

Caption

Swansea University researchers are developing a 'smart-patch' device for vaccines. This device will deliver a vaccine and simultaneously measure a patient's inflammatory response to the vaccination by monitoring biomarkers in the skin. Microneedles are tiny needles - their tips are measured in millionths of a metre (micrometer) - designed to break the skin barrier and deliver medicines in a minimally invasive manner. A classic example is the transdermal nicotine patch that delivers nicotine through skin to help people give up smoking.

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IMPACT, Swansea University

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