Recently, a new method to improve drug absorption was introduced, taking a cue from the unique structure of octopus suckers. A suction patch was engineered to adhere strongly to the inner cheek (buccal mucosa) and stretch it slightly, making it easier for drugs to pass through. This method, combined with substances that enhance absorption, showed promising results in experiments. In dogs, the suction patch delivered significantly higher amounts of a test drug compared to a standard oral tablet. Further tests in humans also showed positive outcomes, suggesting this technique could be a potential game-changer in drug delivery.

This innovation, termed as Suction-Controlled Octopus-Derived (SCOD) technology, showcases a blend of biology and engineering to address real-world medical challenges. It's a step forward in making drug administration more patient-friendly while maintaining effectiveness. The ability to deliver drugs efficiently through the buccal mucosa could provide a viable alternative to injections, particularly for drugs that are poorly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract.

The SCOD technology is an exemplary model of how studying and mimicking nature's designs could lead to solutions in healthcare. By reducing the need for injections, this technology could significantly improve the experience for patients needing regular medication, moving us closer to more user-friendly and effective drug delivery systems.

Boosting systemic absorption of peptides with a bioinspired buccal-stretching patch - Sci Transl Med. 2023 Sep 27;15(715):eabq1887. 

Zhi Luo, David Klein Cerrejon, Simon Römer, Nicole Zoratto, Jean-Christophe Leroux