Microneedles‐Integrated Photothermal‐Based Combinational Therapeutics for Cancer Treatment

ABSTRACT Photothermal therapeutics is one of the most promising approaches for cancer treatment. Photothermal therapeutics involve light interaction of photothermal agents to generate localized heat and effectively kill cancerous cells. However, photothermal treatment can lead to uncontrolled drug delivery, limited accumulation of photothermal agents at the diseased site, and unwanted accumulation in healthy organs upon intravenous administration. Hence, photothermal therapeutics have been integrated with microneedle (MN) technology for better utilization. In this approach, the MNs are loaded with a photothermal agent or a synergistic agent/drug that enables the localized delivery of such agents at a sufficient dose. Upon light irradiation, the MNs enable precise photothermal action and controlled drug release, enhancing the therapeutic efficacy. The present review highlights recent advancements in MN‐integrated photothermal cancer therapeutics. First, the design, characterization techniques, and materials used for the fabrication of MNs are discussed. Furthermore, the application of MNs in specific tumor therapeutics based on photothermal methods is discussed. Finally, the review summarizes the current challenges and future directions for microneedle‐integrated photothermal cancer therapeutics.