A device integrating microneedle and jig of preventing needle buckling/skin deformation inspired by mosquito — 3D fabrication and experiment of skin puncture/blood sampling

A device integrating microneedle and jig is proposed for preventing both needle buckling and skin deformation, which is inspired by the function of mosquito labium. A microneedle with thin plate-like holder is set inside a guiding slit of jig. With this slit, it becomes possible to push down the holder part until it comes into contact with the skin, that is, it can pierce the skin to the bottom of needle. The constricted part of slit prevents the needle from moving out of central hole of jig, preventing its buckling. Not only applying tension to the skin but also preventing surface concaved deformation is effective for easy puncture without stimulating pain sensory nerves. We propose a method of securing the jig so that it does not move in vertical direction, and fixing the bottom of jig to the skin surface with an adhesive substance (organic adhesive material, e.g., mucin, double-sided adhesive tape, etc.). The integrated device was fabricated using a 3D laser lithography machine. To increase the adhesive area, a skirt-like base is provided.