316eP Imiquimod-loaded dissolvable microneedles: a novel pre-clinical immunotherapeutic approach for dermato-oncology

Conference poster

Akmandor, T., Russo, C., Loizidou, E., Leontiev, D. and Hyseni, A. 2025. 316eP Imiquimod-loaded dissolvable microneedles: a novel pre-clinical immunotherapeutic approach for dermato-oncology. ESMO Immuno-Oncology Congress 2025. London, UK 10 - 12 Dec 2025 Elsevier. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.iotech.2025.101515
TypeConference poster
Title316eP Imiquimod-loaded dissolvable microneedles: a novel pre-clinical immunotherapeutic approach for dermato-oncology
AuthorsAkmandor, T., Russo, C., Loizidou, E., Leontiev, D. and Hyseni, A.
Abstract

Background

Imiquimod, a toll-like receptor-7 agonist, is approved for topical treatment of superficial basal cell carcinoma and actinic keratosis, but dermal penetration is limited and variable. Improved delivery strategies are needed to maximise its immunotherapeutic potential in dermato-oncology. Dissolvable microneedles (MNs) provide a minimally invasive platform for intradermal administration with potential for sustained exposure. Sustained intradermal delivery may improve treatment adherence and local immune activation compared to repeated topical application. The aim of this study was to evaluate the pre-clinical feasibility of imiquimod delivery using dissolvable MNs.

Methods

Sugar-based MNs incorporating imiquimod were fabricated by vacuum casting. MN geometry, mechanical strength, insertion and dissolution behaviour were assessed. Drug incorporation was confirmed. Release was analysed in aqueous media using UV-HPLC, triple quadrupole LC-MS and UV spectrophotometry. Ex-vivo penetration and drug quantification were performed in porcine skin.

Results

MNs exhibited sharp geometry, robust insertion into skin, and sustained release of imiquimod over several days before complete dissolution. Incorporation was confirmed, and release into solution was quantifiable across methods. Ex-vivo studies in porcine skin verified intradermal delivery of imiquimod into the epidermis and upper dermis, with measurable recovery.

Conclusions

This pre-clinical feasibility study shows that dissolvable MNs can reproducibly deliver imiquimod intradermally with prolonged release, overcoming the penetration limits of topical creams. As a novel immunotherapeutic approach in dermato-oncology, this platform may enhance local immune activation in cutaneous malignancies including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. These findings support further development of MN-based imiquimod delivery as part of emerging intradermal immunotherapeutic strategies in oncology. Further optimisation and in vivo evaluation are warranted to establish therapeutic efficacy and safety.

Sustainable Development Goals9 Industry, innovation and infrastructure
Middlesex University ThemeHealth & Wellbeing
ConferenceESMO Immuno-Oncology Congress 2025
Proceedings TitleImmuno-Oncology and Technology
ISSN
Electronic2590-0188
PublisherElsevier
Publication dates
Online26 Dec 2025
PrintDec 2025
Publication process dates
Deposited23 Jan 2026
Output statusPublished
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1016/j.iotech.2025.101515
Related Output
Has metadatahttps://publons.com/wos-op/publon/80629311/
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