In a breakthrough that could transform how we receive medicines, scientists from Rutgers University have crafted a new way to effectively spray biologically active materials.
This method holds promise for needle-free vaccinations and better delivery of medicines directly through the skin.
So, what’s all the buzz about?
The Spray Magic
The researchers have improved a technique called “electrospray deposition.”
In simple terms, this method involves applying high voltage to a liquid, like a medicine, turning it into tiny particles. These particles then travel to their target, like a patch, where they dry and leave behind a solid deposit of the original material.
But there was a catch.
Previously, using this spray method was like trying to water a small plant with a big hose – a lot of water misses the plant. In medical terms, when trying to spray onto tiny targets like “microneedle arrays” (tiny needle structures in skin patches), the usual method would waste over half of the material. This isn’t good, especially when you’re dealing with expensive medicines or vaccines.
However, the team led by Professor Jonathan Singer has made significant enhancements. They’ve figured out a way to make sure almost all of the spray hits its tiny targets.
Sarah Park, a researcher involved in the study, excitedly noted that they can now deposit with almost perfect efficiency. This means no wastage, which is a big deal for expensive materials like certain drugs and vaccines.
Why It Matters
Such coatings are not new; they’re essential in many medical devices we use, like pacemakers or stents.
But the real excitement is about newer applications, like transdermal patches. These patches can deliver medication directly through the skin, and with this new technique, they can be made more efficiently and potentially be more widespread.
Moreover, producing medicines and vaccines can be pricey. If even a tiny bit is wasted, it can determine whether a patient gets a treatment or not. This new technique ensures almost no waste, making the process cost-effective.
Another great thing? Unlike other methods, this new spraying technique doesn’t need super precise equipment placement. This means making these medical products on a large scale could be cheaper and simpler.
This achievement is just the start. The team believes their work can be further enhanced, broadening the types of materials they can work with and even increasing the rate of material delivery.
The Rutgers University team, comprising of experts from various departments, has given the medical world a tool that could reshape how medicines are delivered. As more work is done in this area, there’s hope that treatments will not only become more efficient but also more accessible to everyone.
In the end, imagine a world where getting your flu shot could be as simple as putting on a patch. Thanks to these scientists, that world might be closer than we think.
The study was published in Nature Communications.
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Source: Rutgers University.
