Hydrogel-forming microneedles for periodontal bio-sensing (360G-Wellcome-211593_Z_18_Z)

This project aims to demonstrate that a swellable-hydrogel system of tiny projections, arranged on a thin baseplate can be used to imbibe periodontal crevicular fluid as a method of minimally invasive fluid collection. We aim to select and optimise the most appropriate microneedle design and formulation for fluid sampling from the gingival sulcus. This will involve formulation of aqueous blends of biocompatible polymers, cross-linked to form a hydrogel matrix that is hard in the dry state. This devices could be inserted between the teeth and gum margins, into the gingival sulcus where the hydrogel can swell and uptake periodontal crevicular fluid. Removing the device intact, it can be placed into an elution buffer. Pro-inflammatory biomarkers such as IL 1, IL 2 or IL 6 that have adhered to the hydrogel surface, or imbibed into the matrix can be washed off and assayed using commercially available ELISA kits. To achieve these aims, hydrogel swelling capacity and mechanical strength will be assessed using swelling studies and texture analysis for fracture force characterisation. Thin films of formulations will be cast, dried, cross-linked and assessed for cross-link density using FTIR. Commercially available ELISAs will be used to detect pro-inflammatory markers from pre-defined calibrator fluids.