February 16, 2024 | Sergio J. Peñas-Núñez, David Mecerreyes, and Miryam Criado-Gonzalez
Injectable conductive polymer gels have emerged as a promising area in bioelectronics, offering a soft, flexible, and biocompatible interface between electronic devices and biological systems. These gels, formed by noncovalent interactions and dynamic covalent bonds, can self-heal and adapt to irregular body shapes, making them ideal for minimally invasive medical applications. Conducting polymers such as PEDOT, PANi, and PPy, along with conductive nanomaterials like graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes, are commonly used to create these gels. Recent advancements include the integration of ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents, which enhance ionic conductivity and biocompatibility. Injectable gels can be processed through 3D printing to create customized scaffolds for bioelectronic applications, including electronic skin and biosensors. These gels exhibit tunable mechanical properties, high electrical conductivity, and long-term stability in physiological environments. They are also being explored for tissue engineering and biosensing, where their ability to deliver therapeutic agents and stimulate cells is crucial. The development of hybrid hydrogels with conductive nanomaterials and ionic components has further expanded their potential in bioelectronic applications. Overall, injectable conductive polymer gels represent a significant advancement in bioelectronics, offering a versatile and adaptable solution for a wide range of medical and biological applications.Injectable conductive polymer gels have emerged as a promising area in bioelectronics, offering a soft, flexible, and biocompatible interface between electronic devices and biological systems. These gels, formed by noncovalent interactions and dynamic covalent bonds, can self-heal and adapt to irregular body shapes, making them ideal for minimally invasive medical applications. Conducting polymers such as PEDOT, PANi, and PPy, along with conductive nanomaterials like graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes, are commonly used to create these gels. Recent advancements include the integration of ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents, which enhance ionic conductivity and biocompatibility. Injectable gels can be processed through 3D printing to create customized scaffolds for bioelectronic applications, including electronic skin and biosensors. These gels exhibit tunable mechanical properties, high electrical conductivity, and long-term stability in physiological environments. They are also being explored for tissue engineering and biosensing, where their ability to deliver therapeutic agents and stimulate cells is crucial. The development of hybrid hydrogels with conductive nanomaterials and ionic components has further expanded their potential in bioelectronic applications. Overall, injectable conductive polymer gels represent a significant advancement in bioelectronics, offering a versatile and adaptable solution for a wide range of medical and biological applications.