NUS researchers innovate microneedles for diabetic wound treatment

Researchers at the National University of Singapore (NUS) are working on new ways to help heal diabetic wounds. Every day in Singapore, about four people have to have their lower limbs amputated because their wounds do not heal properly. This issue affects around 400,000 people with diabetes in the country. The NUS team has created two innovative technologies using microneedles. These tiny needles can deliver medicine directly to wounds, helping them heal faster. Microneedles are less painful and safer than traditional needles and can also reduce the risk of infection. The first method involves using microneedles made from a substance called sucralfate. This method delivers a protein known as interleukin-4 (IL-4), which helps stimulate growth and repair in the tissue. The microneedles dissolve in the wound, allowing the medicine to work directly where it is needed. According to the researchers, this approach can double the healing rate compared to regular treatments. The second technology focuses on using heparin-coated microneedles to remove harmful proteins and immune cells that cause inflammation in diabetic wounds. This technique has shown to significantly reduce inflammation and the size of the wound. The team is also exploring options for 3D-printing microneedles to provide customized treatment for individual patients. They aim to develop microneedles that are not only effective but also affordable and easy to use, especially for low-income groups who are at higher risk for such wounds. The researchers hope to move towards clinical trials soon. They have received a grant to continue their work on these promising treatments for diabetic wounds.