Dissolvable 3D-printed patch aims to improve skin cancer treatment
Researchers at Queen’s University Belfast have developed a dissolvable 3D-printed patch designed to treat localized skin cancer. The patch uses microneedles to deliver two anti-cancer drugs, curcumin and 5-fluorouracil, directly to the affected skin area. This method reduces the need for repeated topical treatments or invasive procedures like injections, potentially making skin cancer treatment less painful and more convenient for patients. The technology involves a one-step 3D-printing process that integrates the drugs into the microneedles during manufacturing, enhancing drug delivery efficiency and allowing for controlled release. The study, led by PhD student Rutuja N Meshram and Professor Dimitrios A Lamprou, highlights the potential of advanced manufacturing techniques in revolutionizing medicine delivery, with implications for personalized and patient-friendly healthcare solutions.
A team of researchers from Queen’s University Belfast has developed a novel dissolvable 3D-printed patch designed to enhance the treatment of localized skin cancer. The innovation, which features microneedles capable of administering two anti-cancer drugs, curcumin and 5-fluorouracil, aims to offer a more effective and patient-friendly alternative to conventional therapies. The patch, created using a one-step 3D-printing process, allows the integration of the drugs directly into the printable resin used to fabricate the microneedles. This method ensures that the active ingredients are embedded within the structure of the patch, facilitating improved skin penetration and a controlled two-stage release of medication. According to the researchers, this approach enhances drug delivery efficiency while reducing the frequency of required treatments. The development was led by Rutuja N Meshram, a final-year PhD student, and Prof Dimitrios A Lamprou, who holds the chair of biofabrication and advanced manufacturing at the School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast. Their work highlights the growing role of additive manufacturing in pharmaceutical science, offering new possibilities for targeted therapy and personalized medicine. The microneedles, which are engineered to dissolve upon application, eliminate the need for needles and injections, thereby addressing common concerns related to pain, discomfort, and the risk of needle-stick injuries. By delivering medication directly to the affected area, the patch minimizes systemic exposure and potentially reduces adverse effects associated with traditional chemotherapy regimens. Lamprou emphasized the significance of the technology in transforming patient care. He noted that many individuals face anxiety and inconvenience due to the invasive nature of current treatment methods. The new system, he explained, offers a non-invasive solution that aligns with modern expectations for healthcare accessibility and comfort. Meshram expressed optimism about the broader implications of their research. She highlighted how advanced manufacturing techniques like 3D printing are reshaping medicine by enabling more accurate drug delivery and fostering innovations in healthcare delivery. The study suggests that similar approaches could be applied to develop next-generation therapeutic products, including vaccines and other critical medications. The research was published in Advanced Healthcare Materials and received support from the Joint Commissioner, Education Branch, Social Welfare in Maharashtra, India. This collaboration underscores the international interest in advancing medical technologies that prioritize patient safety and efficacy. As the field of biomedical engineering continues to evolve, the emergence of such innovative solutions marks a step forward in the quest for more efficient and compassionate care. With further clinical trials and regulatory approvals, the dissolvable 3D-printed patch could soon become a standard option in dermatological oncology, offering relief and hope to countless patients worldwide.
Researchers from Queen's University Belfast have developed a dissolvable 3D-printed patch designed to treat localized skin cancer. The patch uses microneedles to deliver two anti-cancer drugs, curcumin and 5-fluorouracil, directly to the affected area, potentially reducing the need for repeated topical treatments or invasive procedures. The technology allows for targeted drug delivery, minimizing pain and improving patient comfort. The study, led by PhD student Rutuja N Meshram and Professor Dimitrios A Lamprou, highlights advancements in biofabrication and advanced manufacturing, suggesting potential applications beyond cancer treatment, such as vaccines and personalized medicine.
Bias read (Center): The article presents scientific research without political commentary or advocacy. It focuses on medical innovation and clinical benefits without taking a stance on ideological or policy-related issues. The tone remains neutral, emphasizing technical details and expert opinions without promoting any
Why factuality (87): The article accurately describes the development of a 3D-printed patch for skin cancer treatment by researchers at Queen's University Belfast. It mentions the specific drugs used (curcumin and 5-fluorouracil) and the researchers involved (Rutuja N Meshram and Professor Dimitrios A Lamprou). The deta
Why objectivity (94): The article presents the information in a neutral and informative manner, avoiding any biased language or opinionated statements. It quotes the professor directly and focuses on the scientific and practical benefits of the technology without taking sides or using emotionally charged words.
The Irish TimesIndependent🔒CenterFactual 85Objective 908/23/2026
Researchers at Queen’s University Belfast have developed a dissolvable 3D-printed patch designed to treat localized skin cancer. The patch uses microneedles to deliver two anti-cancer drugs, curcumin and 5-fluorouracil, directly to the affected skin area. This method reduces the need for repeated topical treatments or invasive procedures like injections, potentially making skin cancer treatment less painful and more convenient for patients. The technology involves a one-step 3D-printing process that integrates the drugs into the microneedles during manufacturing, enhancing drug delivery efficiency and allowing for controlled release. The study, led by PhD student Rutuja N Meshram and Professor Dimitrios A Lamprou, highlights the potential of advanced manufacturing techniques in revolutionizing medicine delivery, with implications for personalized and patient-friendly healthcare solutions.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a scientific development without overt ideological framing. It focuses on the technical aspects of the 3D-printed patch, its benefits for patients, and its potential impact on healthcare delivery. There is no explicit political commentary or advocacy for specific policies, and a
Why factuality (85): The article presents factual information based on the research conducted by Queen’s University Belfast. It accurately describes the development of a dissolvable 3D-printed patch containing microneedles for targeted drug delivery. The names of the researchers and their affiliations are correctly cite
Why objectivity (90): The article maintains a neutral and informative tone throughout, presenting the research findings without apparent bias. It avoids emotionally charged language and focuses on the scientific benefits of the new treatment method. The emphasis is on the practical advantages for patients without promoti
How each side covered it
The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.
progressive
center
conservative
★
How each side covered it
Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.
Ireland
