Hyaluronic Acid Microneedle With α-Boswellic Acid Heal Oral Ulcers by Anti-inflammatory Activity.

OBJECTIVE

Conventional topical therapies for oral ulcers remain limited due to poor mucosal adhesion and rapid clearance by saliva. To overcome these challenges, we aimed to develop a microneedle patch with α-boswellic acid for targeted anti-inflammatory treatment of oral ulcers.

METHODS

The microneedle patch was fabricated and evaluated for mechanical strength and drug release profile. Biocompatibility was assessed. In vitro anti-inflammatory activity was examined in macrophages. In vivo efficacy was tested using a rat oral ulcer model.

RESULTS

The α-boswellic acid-loaded hyaluronic acid methacryloyl microneedle patch displayed adequate mechanical properties and sustained drug release. It exhibited favorable biocompatibility with low cytotoxicity and no apparent adverse effects on fibroblast migration. In vitro, the patch significantly inhibited pro-inflammatory cytokine and promoted M2 polarization. The patch accelerated ulcer healing, reducing the unhealed wound area in vivo. Enhanced collagen deposition and stimulated neovascularization were observed. Histological results demonstrated organized tissue regeneration, decreased neutrophil infiltration, and shifted macrophage phenotype.

CONCLUSIONS

The α-boswellic acid-loaded hyaluronic acid methacryloyl microneedle patch effectively combines the anti-inflammatory activity of α-boswellic acid with the minimally invasive delivery advantages of the microneedle. This approach addresses key limitations of current topical treatments, demonstrating a promising therapeutic strategy for clinical translation.