Tuesday 25 August 2026
Researchers from Queen’s University Belfast have developed an innovative dissolvable 3D-printed patch that could help improve treatment for localised skin cancer.
This small patch contains tiny microneedles that can gently pass through the outer layer of the skin without drawing blood. These microneedles can deliver two anti-cancer drugs, curcumin and 5-fluorouracil, for potential use in people with localised skin cancer treatment.
By delivering medicine straight to the affected area, these patches provide a more targeted medicine delivery and could help reduce the need for repeated topical treatments, or more invasive procedures such as injections – making skin cancer treatment more efficient, less painful and easier for patients.
The study has been published in Advanced Healthcare Materials.
The research was carried out by Rutuja N. Meshram, a final Year PhD Student, and Professor Dimitrios A. Lamprou, Chair of Biofabrication and Advanced Manufacturing, both from the School of Pharmacy at Queen’s University Belfast.
Professor Dimitrios A. Lamprou, who led the research, said: "Skin cancer is a major public health concern, and current treatments often require repeated topical applications, invasive procedures, or can cause unwanted side effects. Many people also experience fear, discomfort, or inconvenience when treatments involve needles and injections.
“Minimally invasive microneedle systems that dissolve after application could provide a more patient-friendly, simpler and less painful way to deliver cancer medicines. Because the microneedles dissolve after use, they may also help reduce the risk of needle-stick injuries and decrease medical sharps waste."
One-step 3D-printing method
To create their specialised patch, the researchers developed a one-step 3D-printing method. This allowed them to add both anti-cancer drugs directly into a printable resin before making the microneedle patch.
Unlike previous approaches, which coated drugs onto pre-made microneedles, this technique blends the drugs directly into the microneedles during the manufacturing stage. This enables better skin penetration, higher drug loading, and a controlled two-stage release tailored to meet each individual patient’s needs.
The researchers believe this approach could support the development of next-generation medicine delivery technologies including vaccines and other life-saving drugs.
Rutuja N. Meshram, first author on the study, said: “Advanced manufacturing technologies such as 3D-printing are helping reshape the future of medicine by enabling more precise drug delivery and supporting personalised, patient-friendly healthcare.
“Our findings point to a future where medicines and vaccines can be delivered in ways that are less painful, easier to use, and more acceptable to patients than traditional injections. In time, this research could support the development of more personalised treatments and safer, more accessible healthcare technologies.”
The study was supported by the Joint Commissioner, Education Branch, Social Welfare in Maharashtra, India.