Knowledge What is the function of a radiofrequency (RF) needle electrode array? Unlocking Advanced Transdermal Drug Delivery
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Tech Team · Belislaser

Updated 2 days ago

What is the function of a radiofrequency (RF) needle electrode array? Unlocking Advanced Transdermal Drug Delivery


The primary function of a radiofrequency (RF) needle electrode array is to breach the skin's outer barrier using controlled thermal energy. By applying high-frequency alternating current, the array forces ions within the tissue into rapid motion. This kinetic activity generates frictional heat, ablating the tissue to create precise micro-channels for drug delivery.

This technology utilizes the heat generated by ionic friction to vaporize specific cells in the stratum corneum. This creates a low-resistance pathway that enables macromolecular drugs to penetrate the skin, bypassing the natural barrier that usually blocks them.

The Mechanism of Action

Inducing Ionic Movement

The core principle relies on the application of high-frequency alternating current directly to the skin via the needle array.

Instead of cutting the tissue mechanically, the current interacts with ions naturally present within the tissue. This energy forces these ions to rapidly and repeatedly change their movement trajectories.

Generating Frictional Heat

This intense, chaotic ionic movement creates significant friction at the cellular level.

Consequently, this friction generates heat from within the tissue itself. This leads to localized cell ablation, effectively vaporizing the targeted tissue without traditional mechanical puncture.

Structural Outcome and Purpose

Creating Micro-Channels

The ablation process results in the formation of precise physical pathways known as micro-channels.

According to technical specifications, these channels are approximately 70 microns deep and 30 microns in diameter. This geometry is strictly controlled to ensure uniformity across the treatment area.

Targeting the Stratum Corneum

The depth of 70 microns is specifically intended to penetrate the stratum corneum, the skin's outermost protective layer.

By ablating this layer, the array removes the primary impediment to absorption. This creates a low-resistance pathway, allowing large-molecule (macromolecular) drugs to pass through a barrier they could not otherwise cross.

Understanding the Trade-offs

Depth Limitations

The technology is engineered for surface-level permeation, not deep tissue injection.

With a depth of approximately 70 microns, the micro-channels are designed to breach the barrier layer (stratum corneum) but do not extend deep into the dermis or subcutaneous tissue.

Dependence on Ionic Interaction

The heating mechanism relies on the presence of ions within the tissue to generate friction.

Therefore, the efficacy of the ablation is directly tied to the interaction between the high-frequency current and the tissue's ionic content, rather than a simple external heat source.

Making the Right Choice for Your Goal

This technology is a specialized tool for overcoming the skin's natural shielding properties. Here is how to determine if it aligns with your objectives:

  • If your primary focus is delivering macromolecular drugs: This technology allows you to bypass the stratum corneum, which typically blocks large molecules from passive absorption.
  • If your primary focus is non-mechanical barrier disruption: This method utilizes ionic friction to create pathways, offering a thermal alternative to traditional mechanical microneedling.

The RF needle electrode array transforms the skin from a barrier into a gateway by using the tissue's own ions to open microscopic doors for medication.

Summary Table:

Feature Specification/Detail
Primary Mechanism High-frequency alternating current inducing ionic friction
Effect Localized cell ablation and vaporization
Micro-Channel Depth Approximately 70 microns (targets stratum corneum)
Micro-Channel Diameter Approximately 30 microns
Key Benefit Enables penetration of macromolecular drugs
Alternative To Traditional mechanical microneedling

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References

  1. D.I. J. Morrow, R. F. Donnelly. Innovative Strategies for Enhancing Topical and Transdermal Drug Delivery. DOI: 10.2174/187412660701013606

This article is also based on technical information from Belislaser Knowledge Base .

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