Georgia Tech Researchers Develop Biodegradable 'STAR Particles' to Enhance Skin Drug Delivery
Researchers at Georgia Tech have developed biodegradable 'STAR particles' designed to improve the delivery of drugs directly to the skin. These microscopic particles feature tiny needles that painlessly puncture the skin's outer layer, the stratum corneum, which typically acts as a barrier to topical medications. This innovation aims to overcome the limitation of many dermatological drugs that are currently administered orally or via injection, leading to potential systemic side effects and reduced efficacy. The team has created STAR particles from three polymers: water-soluble poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), enzyme-degradable cellulose acetate (CA), and hydrolyzable polylactic acid (PLA). These biodegradable materials address environmental concerns associated with previous ceramic versions of the particles. The polymer STAR particles have demonstrated consistent skin-puncturing ability and remained intact after use, even after storage. This technology allows for the targeted delivery of medication directly to ...
