From Biology to Bio-devices: RANKL-Functionalized Dissolving Microneedles for Controlled Orthodontic Tooth Movement
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65795/92nrn875Keywords:
Orthodontic Tooth Movement, Orthodontics, Osteoclastogenesis, Bone Remodeling, Drug Delivery Systems, Microneedles, Osteoclasts, RANK LigandAbstract
Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) is fundamentally governed by alveolar bone remodeling mediated through the RANK-RANKL-OPG signaling axis. Contemporary acceleration strategies, including surgical and pharmacologic approaches, are limited by invasiveness, lack of site specificity, and patient compliance issues. Microneedle-based delivery systems have emerged as minimally invasive platforms capable of precise, localized biomolecule administration across mucosal barriers. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on RANKL biology in orthodontics and microneedle drug-delivery technology and proposes a conceptual framework for RANKL-functionalized dissolving microneedle patches to achieve controlled, site-specific acceleration of tooth movement. Potential mechanisms, design considerations, clinical applications, advantages, and safety concerns are critically analyzed. Although still theoretical, this bio-device paradigm represents a promising step toward precision, biologically driven orthodontics and warrants focused translational research.
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Accepted 24-06-2026
Published 09-07-2026
