Architected 3D‑printed microneedle composites for precision-controlled and personalized osteoporosis drug delivery

Document Type

Review

Publication Date

4-1-2026

Abstract

The ineffectiveness of conventional therapies for osteoporosis (OP) is frequently attributed to systemic adverse effects, lack of effective targeting, and inadequate medication delivery. 3D-printed microneedles (3DMNs) used for targeted therapeutic delivery represent a transformational strategy that not only addresses these issues but also dramatically improves therapeutic results for treating chronic OP. Bibliometric analysis reveals an exponential growth in MN research, with 3,994 PubMed-indexed articles (1952–2024), of which 2,910 (~ 73%) emerged in the last five years. The use of state-of-the-art 3D printing technology to create MNs with unmatched accuracy and configurable functionality, in addition to its potential, current challenges and future directions, is at the core of this review article. By tailoring the geometry and drug content of these MNs, one can administer OP therapy at a degree of personalization that was not previously possible. This technique, in contrast to existing approaches, places a strong emphasis on localized medication delivery. With minimal invasiveness, 3DMNs can be used to penetrate the skin and deliver therapeutic payloads to afflicted osteoporotic areas precisely. Regulatory-approved MN products (e.g., MicronJet600) have validated the translational viability of the platform in vaccinology, yet their extension to OP remains nascent. This review presents a novel technological method that overcomes current constraints in drug delivery systems, adding to the continuing discussion on effective OP therapies. In addition, here, we emphasize the importance of progressive biodegradable and biocompatible materials for creating MNs that guarantee their compatibility with the complex environment of bone tissue. Positioned at the intersection of biomedical engineering and targeted drug delivery, 3DMNs represent a promising paradigm for next-generation OP therapeutics, enabling customizable, scalable, and pain-free alternatives to conventional injection-based regimens.

Publication Title

Advanced Composites and Hybrid Materials

ISSN

25220128

DOI

10.1007/s42114-026-01640-x

Volume

9

Issue

2

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