journal

A new paper titled “A proposed model membrane and test method for microneedle insertion studies” describes the use of a commercial polymeric film (Parafilm M®, a blend of a hydrocarbon wax and a polyolefin) as testing alternative to biological tissue for microneedle insertion studies. Using force applied by a TA.XTPlus Texture Analyzer and in other tests by human volunteers, researchers inserted Polymeric microneedle arrays into Parafilm M® and also into excised neonatal porcine skin. Parafilm M® was folded before the insertions to closely approximate thickness of the excised skin. The use of Parafilm M®along with a standardized force/time profile applied by a texture analyzer is promising because it may provide the basis for a rapid microneedle quality control testing.

The paper was developed by researchers at Queen’s University (Belfast) and is publicly available through open access funded by Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council. Download or read the paper online here.

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