Microneedles for precision health monitoring more inclusive

Microneedle technologies are attracting growing attention as a minimally invasive platform for precision health. In a new review published in Intelligent Sports and Health, researchers described how microneedles are evolving beyond transdermal drug delivery into multifunctional systems for real-time biosensing, therapeutic monitoring, and rehabilitation support. The review offers a timely perspective for researchers, clinicians, and developers working at the intersection of biomaterials, biosensors, wearable devices, rehabilitation, and intelligent healthcare systems.

“Unlike conventional needles, microneedles are tiny structures that can interact with the skin in a less invasive and more comfortable way,” explains corresponding author Li-na Du. “This makes them especially promising for wearable and personalized health technologies designed for continuous monitoring and tailored intervention.”

The researchers summarized recent progress in microneedle materials, structural design, drug loading and release, sensing performance, and validation strategies, as well as highlighting the growing integration of microneedles with biosensing platforms, digital health tools, and intelligent therapeutic devices.

“Together, these advances point to a future in which microneedles can support more precise, convenient, and individualized healthcare,” says first author Langlin Ji. “Microneedles have moved far beyond the idea of simply delivering drugs through the skin — they are increasingly being developed as multifunctional platforms that can monitor biomarkers, assist therapy, and support personalized rehabilitation.”

Nonetheless, the researchers noted that several important challenges must be overcome before microneedle systems can achieve broad clinical and societal impact. These include improving large-scale manufacturing, strengthening standardization and quality control, expanding clinical validation, and ensuring that these technologies are accessible to a wider range of users.

“Future progress will depend not only on technical innovation, but also on successful translation into practical and accessible healthcare solutions,” says Du. “If these barriers can be addressed, microneedles may help build a more inclusive next-generation platform for precision monitoring and rehabilitation.”

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Contact author details: Li-na Du, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing 100850, China, dulina@188.com

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