Advances in the processing of materials on a micro-scale have led to the development and introduction of devices that employ very small needles – microneedles – that have significant potential in devices for diagnostics, healthcare monitoring and drug delivery by mechanically perforating the outer skin layer and allowing for transdermal drug absorption or fluid sampling. These processing techniques incorporate one or more technologies that enable the precise machining, extrusion, casting, and/or forming of from one to an array or grid of microneedles. Several factors - include an aging patient population, biological drug therapies for chronic conditions, and an emphasis on patient self-monitoring and self-care – are driving an evolution in the way that healthcare is delivered. Evolving microneedle systems will be well-positioned to address a significant segment of the large –molecule biological drugs expected to emerge from the convergence of automated discovery and genome mapping. Before microneedles find widespread use, researchers must perfect the techniques for optimally inserting them into the skin, and complete the integration of microneedles into a full diagnostic, monitoring or drug delivery system.

Publication Date: July 2010

Summary of Contents (see Prospectus for Full Contents)

Executive Summary

Microneedle Medical Market Overview

The Trend to Minimally Invasive Medicine

Drug Delivery & Self-Administration

Continuous & Remote Monitoring

Shifting Patient Demographics

Managed Care Initiatives

Commercial Microneedle Devices

Competitive Landscape

Microneedle Design & Technology

Solid Microneedles

Hollow Microneedles

Coated Microneedles

Microneedle Arrays & Array Geometries

Microneedle Manufacturing

Material Selection Issues

Fabrication Techniques

Emerging Fabrication Methods

Applications for Microneedle Technology

Biosensing

Sampling

Drug Delivery

Tissue Enhancement

Microneedle Technology Transfer Factors

Europe

Japan

North America

Selected Research Programs

Microneedle Market Drivers

Drug Discovery Trends

Continuous Monitoring

Large-Molecule Biologics

Remote Patient Care

Drug Delivery Compliance

Patient/Consumer Sentiment

Commercial Therapeutic Opportunities

Antivirals

Cancer Therapeutics

Dermatology/Cosmetic Surgery

Diabetes

Diagnostics

Fertility

Genetic Engineering

Pain Management

Osteoporosis

Therapeutic Proteins/Peptides

Vaccines

Market Factors

Regulatory Issues

Rx-to-OTC Switching – the Generics Factor

Patents and IP

Alliances and Partnerships

Microneedle Sector Company Profiles

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