Device-Nano-and 3D-Printed Drug Delivery Systems

Drug delivery has entered an era defined by precision, personaliza�on, and convergence of
material sciences, nanotechnology, and engineering. Conven�onal formula�ons, while successful in
addressing many therapeu�c needs, o9en face bioavailability barriers, systemic toxicity, and lack of
�ssue specificity. The emergence of advanced delivery systems, including microneedle-based devices,
nanocarriers, and 3D-printed pharmaceu�cals, has revolu�onized the field by enabling controlled,
targeted, and pa�ent-specific therapies. Transdermal microneedle pla<orms circumvent hepa�c firstpass
metabolism and improve pa�ent compliance, whereas electropora�on, iontophoresis, and jet
injectors facilitate minimally invasive delivery. Nanocarrier technologies such as liposomes, niosomes,
dendrimers, and PEGylated stealth systems have yielded clinically approved formula�ons including
Doxil, Abraxane, and the mRNA-based lipid nanopar�cle vaccines that demonstrated immense global
impact during the COVID-19 pandemic. Similarly, biodegradable polymers such as PLGA microspheres,
hydrogels, and electrospun fibers enable long-ac�ng depots and �ssue engineering applica�ons.
Meanwhile, addi�ve manufacturing or 3D prin�ng of polypills has unlocked personalized, on-demand
pharmaceu�cal manufacturing. Despite these breakthroughs, regulatory, manufacturing, and
nanotoxicology challenges persist, necessita�ng rigorous GMP compliance, standardized evalua�on,
and environmental safety assessments. Looking ahead, s�muli-responsive pla<orms integrated with
ar�ficial intelligence and wearable sensors represent the future of smart, adap�ve drug delivery. This
chapter provides an in-depth analysis of device-mediated, nanocarrier-based, and 3D-printed systems,
highligh�ng their mechanisms, clinical applica�ons, regulatory landscapes, and transla�onal
opportuni�es.
Keywords: microneed