Microneedle Array Technique for the Longitudinal Extraction of Interstitial Fluid without Hair Removal

Methods and Protocols

Abdul-Mehdi S. Ali¹  Justin T. Baca²  Robert M. Taylor²  Yiliang Zhu³  Alicia M. Bolt⁴ 

[1] Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA;Department of Emergency Medicine, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA;Department of Internal Medicine, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA;Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA;

关键词: microneedle;    interstitial fluid;    heavy metals;    inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry;   

DOI  :  10.3390/mps5030046

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Interstitial fluid (ISF) bathes the cells and tissues and is in constant exchange with blood. As an exchange medium for waste, nutrients, exosomes, and signaling molecules, ISF is recognized as a plentiful source of biomolecules. Many basic and pre-clinical small animal studies could benefit from an inexpensive and efficient technique that allows for the in vivo extraction of ISF for the subsequent quantification of molecules in the interstitial space. We have previously reported on a minimally invasive technique for the extraction of ISF using a 3D-printed microneedle array (MA) platform for comprehensive biomedical applications. Previously, hairless animal models were utilized, and euthanasia was performed immediately following the procedure. Here, we demonstrate the technique in Sprague Dawley rats, without the need for hair removal, over multiple extractions and weeks. As an example of this technique, we report simultaneous quantification of the heavy metals Copper (Cu), Lead (Pb), Lithium (Li), and Nickel (Ni) within the ISF, compared with whole blood. These results demonstrate the MA technique applicability to a broader range of species and studies and the reuse of animals, leading to a reduction in number of animals needed to successfully complete ISF extraction experiments.

【 授权许可】

Unknown