Breakthrough: Conductive Polymers Assembled In Vivo for Neuronal Control

Researchers led by Sanket Samal have reported a method for assembling conductive polymers (CPs) directly within the embryonic and brain tissues of living zebrafish and mice.

This groundbreaking process utilizes natural blood proteins and whole blood as catalysts, enabling the in-vivo assembly of polymers that interact with neurons and can be selectively and reversibly controlled using near-infrared light to modulate neuronal activity in living mice.

Method Development

The reported method involves the assembly of conductive polymers directly inside living tissues. This process was specifically demonstrated within the embryonic and brain tissues of living zebrafish and mice.

Natural blood proteins and whole blood were utilized as catalysts for this assembly, showcasing a novel biological approach.

Polymer Function and Control

Once assembled in vivo, the conductive polymers have been shown to interact with neurons.

Researchers further demonstrated that these polymers can be targeted with near-infrared light. This targeting enabled the selective and reversible control of neuronal activity within living mice.

Implications for Bioelectronics

Samal and colleagues propose that this blood-catalyzed system offers an innovative approach to integrate electronics into living tissues by creating functional synthetic conductive polymers directly within biological systems.

Conductive polymers are highly considered for bioelectronic devices due to several characteristics: their biocompatibility, stability in biofluid environments, and capacity for precise electronic communication, which is particularly relevant for neuromodulation.

The researchers suggest that developing these polymer interfaces inside the body from the outset could significantly enhance their biocompatibility and minimize the presence of residual, potentially toxic catalyst materials.

Demonstration and Related Commentary

As a concrete demonstration of the technique, n-doped poly(benzodifurandione) (n-PBDF) was successfully created using hemoprotein catalysts. This process resulted in stable and ionically sensitive conductive polymer networks.

In a related Perspective article, Guglielmo Lanzani and Maria Rosa Antognazza have discussed potential optimizations for this technique, particularly concerning its applications in neuromodulation and regenerative medicine.