Controlled delivery of IL-10 and retinoic acid for the treatment of psoriasis using a multilayered microneedle

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease driven by a proinflammatory feedback cycle that deteriorates normal skin function and structure. Current treatments often provide incomplete skin clearance or require systemic immunosuppression, which elevates the risk of infection and development of cancers. Here we report a novel dual modality immunotherapy delivered to a spatially localized target that avoids systemic exposure. We combined the cytokine interleukin-10 and the small molecule all-trans retinoic acid for the treatment of psoriasis, delivered in a single microneedle patch. The treatment improved psoriasis area and severity index scores and local biomarkers measured through histology, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry. Ultimately, this study provides a foundation for the localized delivery of immunotherapeutics for psoriasis.