Overview
- UNAM, which announced the progress Monday, is developing a maize‑protein microneedle array and skin patch to deliver antihypertensives such as amlodipine.
- The team reports preclinical validation with physical, mechanical, chemical and biopharmaceutical tests plus in‑vivo lab models under PAPIIT project IG 200726.
- In lab specimens, the patch releases the drug at a constant rate through the skin into the bloodstream, which avoids first‑pass liver metabolism and stomach irritation.
- The product is positioned as a complement to pills to improve daily follow‑through by offering up to one week of steady dosing that may temper pressure swings.
- Researchers point to Mexico’s large, often undiagnosed hypertension burden and note zein’s biocompatible, biodegradable, low‑cost profile for wider access.