Researchers in Korea have developed a drug delivery technology based on octopus sucker technology. It is expected to be widely utilized not only in the treatment of skin diseases but also in the cosmetics field.
Professor Bang Chang-hyun and his research team at Sungkyunkwan University have developed an innovative nanofiber-based adhesive electronic device mimicking the suction cup structure of an octopus in collaboration with Korean startup Mimetics. The research results were published in the journal "Nature Partner Journal Flexible Electronics" on the 7th.
The research team introduced a technology that overcomes the limitations of existing transdermal drug delivery systems. The transdermal drug delivery system is a method of delivering drugs to the body in the form of a patch applied to the skin. While convenient, it has the disadvantage of lower adhesion and drug delivery efficiency compared to injection methods.
The research team developed a technology that strongly adheres to the skin by mimicking the unique protrusion structure of octopus suckers while maintaining structural stability even after absorbing a high-viscosity solution. In particular, the use of carbon nanotubes enhanced the transdermal penetration of the drug.
Carbon nanotubes are fine bundles of carbon atoms connected in a hexagonal pattern like a honeycomb, characterized by their excellent electrical conductivity. The conductive layer of carbon nanotubes creates a fine current that temporarily reduces the electrical resistance of the skin's stratum corneum, aiding drug absorption, the research team explained.
In clinical trials, applying the technology to the human body for 20 minutes each day for 7 days resulted in improved skin roughness, fine wrinkles, and pore count, the research team noted. They explained that this method is far superior to simply applying it to the skin without a conductive layer.
Professor Bang Chang-hyun said, "This research is an innovative technology that maximizes transdermal drug delivery efficiency in a non-invasive manner," adding, "It will be widely utilized in the future development of personalized skincare solutions and advanced transdermal drug delivery systems."
References
npj Flexible Electronics(2025), DOI : https://doi.org/10.1038/s41528-025-00433-4