Innovative Microneedle Patch and Applicator for intradermal (Cancer) immunotherapy (IMPACT)
Revolutionizing cancer immunotherapy through precise, painless microneedle delivery for safer, more effective treatments
This project aims to develop an advanced microneedle-based application system for the delivery of cancer immunotherapies, specifically immune checkpoint inhibitors. The initiative centers on creating a precision applicator capable of reliably delivering microneedle patches into human skin, with a primary focus on skin cancers such as melanoma. A newly established public-private partnership will drive this innovation forward, enabling both cutting-edge technological development and real-world clinical translation.
Skin cancer, particularly melanoma, presents a growing public health burden, with over 325,000 new cases diagnosed globally each year. Current immunotherapies, while effective, are costly and often associated with significant side effects due to systemic administration. Innovation is critical to improve the delivery of these therapies. By enhancing the local precision of delivery through microneedle systems, this project addresses the dual societal challenges of treatment efficacy and healthcare cost containment, offering a safer, more efficient alternative.
The project unfolds in two phases. Phase 1 investigates the mechanical factors affecting microneedle penetration—specifically skin tension, pressure, and positioning—ensuring consistent and solid insertion. Phase 2 focuses on the formulation of dissolvable microneedles loaded with anti-PD-L1 inhibitors and OX-40 agonists, both known to significantly enhance the immune response in cancer treatment. Together, these phases culminate in the development of a clinically applicable device (uPATCH), offering an innovative solution for targeted cancer immunotherapy delivery.
Key deliverables include a validated microneedle applicator platform adaptable for multiple therapies, optimized formulations for melanoma-targeted microneedles, and a fully integrated system suitable for clinical testing. These outputs are designed to enable seamless transition from bench to bedside, offering a transformative tool for the future of cancer immunotherapy
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In each PPP project, research institutions, businesses and healthcare organisations work together on a specific health challenge. Browse the full project overview.
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Strategische publiek-private partnerschappen (PPP's) zijn meerjarige samenwerkingen tussen bedrijven, kennisinstellingen en andere partijen.
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