Scientists at the University of Chicago have unveiled a novel development in the realm of bioelectronics: a prototype for what they term "living bioelectronics", which seamlessly integrates living cells, gel, and electronics to harmoniously coexist with living tissue.
Led by Prof. Bozhi Tian, the team has long been dedicated to bridging the gap between the rigid, metallic world of electronics and the soft, flexible realm of the human body. Their latest innovation represents a significant step forward in this endeavor.
Jiuyun Shi and Bozhi Tian/University of Chicago
Living Bioelectronics
The patches developed by the researchers consist of sensors, bacterial cells, and a gel composed of starch and gelatin. Through tests conducted on mice, the team demonstrated that these devices have the capability to continuously monitor and alleviate psoriasis-like symptoms without causing irritation to the skin.
Jiuyun Shi, a former PhD student in Tian's lab and co-first author of the paper, described the development as a bridge from traditional bioelectronics, where living cells are incorporated into therapy.
The research team noted that integrating electronics with the human body has historically posed significant challenges. While devices such as pacemakers have been conducted to improve the lives of many, their bulky and rigid nature often leads to irritation. Tian's lab, however, has been dedicated to unraveling the fundamental principles governing the interaction between living cells and synthetic materials.
In their latest study, the researchers adopted a novel approach by integrating living cells directly into the electronic devices. This three-component system consists of a flexible electronic circuit with sensors, a soft gel layer mimicking tissue, and S. epidermidis microbes known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
When placed on the skin, the team claims that the bacteria can secrete compounds toreduce inflammation, while the sensors monitor various skin parameters. Tests conducted on mice with psoriasis-like conditions showed promising results, with a significant reduction in symptoms observed.
The researchers envision that the Active Biointegrated Living Electronics (ABLE) platform, as they term it, could potentially be utilized for extended periods, up to six months or more. Moreover, the device can be freeze-dried for storage and easily rehydrated when needed, enhancing its convenience as a treatment option.
Saehyun Kim, another co-first author of the paper and a current PhD student in Tian's lab, likened the healing effects of the device to a "living drug" that eliminates the need for frequent refills.
Beyond treating skin conditions like psoriasis, the researchers foresee a wide range of applications, including patches to accelerate wound healing in patients with diabetes. They also aim to explore the extension of their approach to other tissue and cell types, envisioning devices that could produce insulin or interface with neurons.
"Since then, we've learned so much about the fundamental questions, such as how cells interface with materials and the chemistry and physics of hydrogels, which allows us to make this leap," Tian said in a press release statement. "To see it become reality has been wonderful."
The findings of the research team were published in the journal Science.
