3D printed stimuli-responsive biomaterials for programmable drug delivery
File(s)
Author(s)
Zhou, Kun
Type
Thesis
Abstract
Implantable Drug Delivery Systems (IDDSs) play a crucial role in achieving long-term therapeutic delivery for a wide range of applications, addressing issues from birth control to various chronic diseases. Given the substantial demand, ongoing research focuses on the development of new IDDS, with key aspects including fabrication methods, structural designs, and materials that enable controllable drug release. The future trajectory of IDDSs emphasizes further advancements in spatiotemporal control of drug release and enhanced patient compliance. In this thesis, the exploration of 3D printing stimuli-responsive biomaterials emerges as a promising solution. For fabrication methods, a 4D printing multi-material actuator integrates a pH-responsive hydrogel with a shape-memory polymer (SMP), showcasing spatiotemporal control of actuation. This multi-material printing approach highlights the benefits of integrating multiple functional modules for multi-channel control. The properties of materials are thoroughly demonstrated through structural features. A deployable multi-layer microneedle patch is introduced for oral drug delivery, demonstrating enhanced material flexibility for improved tissue adhesion. Leveraging the high resolution of two-photon polymerization (TPP) printing, a multi-layer flexible patch with finely sharp microneedles is fabricated. The patch can be magnetically controlled to reach specific targets, facilitating extended oral drug delivery through microneedle insertion. Innovations in materials involve the development of biodegradable stimuli-responsive printing resins on a TPP printer to expand the applications of TPP in IDDS microfabrication. Biodegradable SMP printing resin and pH-selective degradable polypeptide printing resins are formulated with excellent printability. In summary, this thesis investigates fabrication methods, structural designs, and materials for advanced IDDS fabrication. It highlights the advantages of using 3D printing stimuli-responsive biomaterials for better control capabilities, meeting the demand for spatiotemporally controlled drug delivery. Furthermore, the reduction in sizes and optimization of delivery methods contribute to improving patient compliance by minimizing invasiveness.
Version
Open Access
Date Issued
2024-02-13
Date Awarded
2024-05-01
Copyright Statement
Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial Licence
License URL
Advisor
Stevens, Molly
Publisher Department
Materials
Publisher Institution
Imperial College London
Qualification Level
Doctoral
Qualification Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)