Microneedle roller electrode array (M-REA): A new tool for in vivo low-voltage electric gene delivery

Abstract

This paper reports a novel device, so-called microneedle roller electrode array (M-REA), for minimally invasive in vivo electric gene delivery, which utilizes parallel circular blades with microneedle arrays on the edge as electrodes. The microneedle arrays are fabricated by planar laser micromachining. Owing to reduced resistance by penetrating stratum corneum and small gaps between electrodes, electric gene delivery by electroporation can be achieved under low voltage. Additionally, our device provides ability of large area electroporation and causes less damage on the target tissue, benefiting from rolling operation, less invasiveness, good biocompatibility and low voltage. Furthermore, low cost fabrication and convenient operation offer vast potential for practical clinical applications.