Microneedle devices and methods of manufacture and use thereof
US6334856B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 21, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jan 1, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 21, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB81B2201/055
- WIPO fieldPharmaceuticals
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Microneedle devices are provided for transport of therapeutic and biological molecules across tissue barriers and for use as microflameholders. In a preferred embodiment for transport across tissue, the microneedles are formed of a biodegradable polymer. Methods of making these devices, which can include hollow and/or porous microneedles, are also provided. A preferred method for making a microneedle includes forming a micromold having sidewalls which define the outer surface of the microneedle, electroplating the sidewalls to form the hollow microneedle, and then removing the micromold from the microneedle. In a preferred method of use, the microneedle device is used to deliver fluid material into or across a biological barrier from one or more chambers in fluid connection with at least one of the microneedles. The device preferably further includes a means for controlling the flow of material through the microneedles. Representative examples of these means include the use of permeable membranes, fracturable impermeable membranes, valves, and pumps.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.