Data-driven Acoustic Approaches to Pharmaceutical Efficacy

Surface acoustic waves (SAWs) can be generated using interdigital transducers (IDTs) fabricated on a piezoelectric device. An electrical signal is provided to the electrodes, and due to the piezoelectric effect, electrical signals are converted to waves. Because of vibrations caused by the waves and energy transported inside the fluid, streaming is generated. This chapter focuses on biomedical applications of SAW. Therefore, acoustofluidics has attracted many researchers and has tremendous applications in biological sciences. Drug delivery, SAW for blood–brain barriers (BBBs), and acoustic tweezers are points of discussion. Pain-free and needle-free drug delivery can be achieved efficiently using SAW. Transdermal drug delivery has an excellent clinical advantage over ordinary methods. Applications may vary based on the type of waves, the type of IDT used, and the frequency used to generate waves. Frequency data may vary when we change the design, fabrication techniques, and piezoelectric material of the IDT. The devices and instruments discussed in this chapter have a frequency range of 15–30 MHz. The SAW treatment on the BBB can alter the transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER), which is a common measurement for the tightness of the BBB and an important factor in the functioning of the BBB. More tightness can be achieved with higher SAW powers (37 dBm). Single-beam acoustic tweezers (SBATs) provide clear advantages over traditional techniques like standing wave methods, representing a major step forward in acoustic manipulation technologies.