Microneedle electrodes: materials, fabrication methods, and electrophysiological signal monitoring‑narrative review

ORCID

Abstract

Flexible, microneedle-based electrodes offer an innovative solution for high-quality physiological signal monitoring, reducing the need for complex algorithms and hardware, thus streamlining health assessments, and enabling earlier disease detection. These electrodes are particularly promising for improving patient outcomes by providing more accurate, reliable, and long-term electrophysiological data, but their clinical adoption is hindered by the limited availability of large-scale population testing. This review examines the key advantages of flexible microneedle electrodes, including their ability to conform to the skin, enhance skin-electrode contact, reduce discomfort, and deliver superior signal fidelity. The mechanical and electri-cal properties of these electrodes are thoroughly explored, focusing on critical aspects like fracture force, skin penetration efficiency, and impedance measurements. Their applications in capturing electrophysiological signals such as ECG, EMG, and EEG are also highlighted, demonstrating their potential in clinical scenarios. Finally, the review outlines future research directions, emphasizing the importance of further studies to enhance the clinical and consumer use of flexible microneedle electrodes in medical diagnostics.

Publication Date

2025-02-25

Publication Title

Biomedical Microdevices

Volume

27

Issue

9

ISSN

1387-2176

Acceptance Date

2024-12-27

Deposit Date

2025-03-03

Embargo Period

2026-02-25

Funding

The authors express their deepest gratitude to the University of Plymouth for the generous provision of facilities that greatly facilitated this research. Special thanks are extended to Ray Jones for editing in manuscript. This publication has been partially supported by the Government of Ireland through the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund (DT2018 0291-A, HOLISTICS); Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) through the Insight Centre for Data Analytics (SFI/12/RC/2289-P2); the Higher Education Authority under the Programme for Research in Third-Level Institutions; and the European Regional Development Fund.

Keywords

Microneedle· Sensor· Device· 3-D printing· Diagnostic

First Page

1

Last Page

1

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This item is under embargo until 25 February 2026

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