Microneedle Technology: Advancing Transdermal Drug Delivery and Biosensing
ABSTRACT
In the realm of transdermal drug delivery and biosensing, MEMS has emerged as a cornerstone technology, propelling the evolution of microneedles toward unprecedented precision and efficacy. These tiny structures represent a convergence of precision engineering and biomedical innovation that has already begun to contribute significant advances in healthcare by providing precise and minimally invasive solutions for a myriad of applications. Although first conceptualized in the late 1970s, the practical realization of microneedles really began to thrive in the 1990s alongside the many advancements in MEMS technology. The subsequent proliferation of microneedle variants—solid, hollow, coated, dissolvable, and hydrogel-forming—underscores the versatility and adaptability of this technology.
In this session, we will explore the latest advancements in MEMS-based microneedle technology, including the various materials and manufacturing methods currently being employed, early commercial success stories, and how this technology will impact healthcare delivery and biosensing in the future.
BIOGRAPHY
As founder and CEO of Rogue Valley Microdevices, Jessica Gomez has created a world-class precision MEMS foundry in the heart of Southern Oregon. Integral to her role as CEO, Ms. Gomez practices a business philosophy of offering best-in-class process technology and R&D expertise to customers, to help them achieve the highest quality and reliability in their products. Prior to founding Rogue Valley Microdevices in 2003, Ms. Gomez honed her experience in semiconductor processing and production management through positions at Standard Microsystems Corporation, Integrated Micromachines, and Xponent Photonics.
Ms. Gomez plays an active leadership role within and beyond the technology industry. She is a board member of the prestigious SEMI Board of Industry Leaders, and she is the first executive selected for Spotlight on SEMI Women, which honors accomplished women in the global microelectronics industry.