Each tiny needle in this biodegradable patch contains microscopic particles loaded with interleukin-4 (IL-4), a molecule known to help regulate the immune system. When applied to the surface of the heart, the needles dissolve and release IL-4 directly into the injured area, creating a healing-friendly environment. Huang and team published their findings in Cell Biomaterials.

“This patch acts like a bridge,” said Huang, assistant professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences. “The microneedles penetrate the outer layer of the heart and allow the drug to reach the damaged muscle underneath, which is normally very hard to access.”