Reverse iontophoresis generated by porous microneedles produces an electroosmotic flow for glucose determination

Blood glucose level is a key indicator of a patient's health, notably the symptoms associated with diabetes. Painless and continuously monitored interstitial glucose is highly preferable for diabetes management. Microneedle arrays can be used as an effective but minimally invasive technique to break the skin barrier. Simultaneous reverse iontophoresis enables non-invasive interstitial fluid extraction from the intercellular matrix ≤25 mm under the skin's surface. Here, we describe an ion-conductive porous microneedle (PMN)-based glucose sensing device combined with reverse ion electroosmosis, in which glucose extraction can be significantly enhanced. Four novel benefits of ionophoresis are concurrently brought about by the charged PMN: (1) decreased transdermal resistance with the low invasive penetration of highly resistant stratum corneum; (2) a reduction of transdermal resistance through interconnectivity; (3) the movement of larger molecules through linked micropores; and (4) the production of an electroosmotic flow (EOF). The EOF generated by PMN is effectively extracted from the skin interstitial fluid for glucose concentration measurement. And this will likely contribute to the long-term home management of chronic diseases.