Geometry-Dependent Properties of Physically Crosslinked PPy-PVA Hydrogels Enable Tunable Iontophoretic Drug Delivery

Objective: Iontophoretic drug delivery has primarily relied on current modulation to regulate drug transport. Here, we investigate hydrogel geometry, microstructure, and local electric fields as alternative mechanisms for controlling transdermal delivery. Methods: Bovine serum albumin (BSA) was encapsulated in polypyrrole-polyvinyl alcohol (PPy-PVA) hydrogels. Five geometries, including Hilbert curve-based designs, were fabricated to vary pore architecture and local electric field distributions. We optimized PPy content, drug loading, and current density. Electric fields were evaluated using finite element analysis, and microstructures were characterized by scanning electron microscopy. Drug transport was assessed using Franz diffusion cells with artificial membranes. Results: Hydrogel geometries exhibited distinct microstructures and electric field distributions. Iontophoresis substantially enhanced permeability compared with passive diffusion, while individual geometries produced different cumulative release, flux, and permeability profiles. The average iontophoretic permeability was (3.80 +/- 1.93) x 10^-5, exceeding previously reported values using artificial membranes. Conclusion: Geometry-driven fabrication of drug-loaded hydrogels enables tunable transport characteristics under both iontophoretic and passive conditions. Significance: Geometry-mediated control offers an alternative approach to regulating iontophoretic drug delivery without requiring individual current-density modulation.

Source: arXiv:2610.31567v1 - http://arxiv.org/abs/2610.31567v1 PDF: https://arxiv.org/pdf/2610.31567v1 Original Link: http://arxiv.org/abs/2610.31567v1