Seamless integration of bioelectronic interface in an animal model via in vivo polymerization of conjugated oligomers

Leveraging the biocatalytic machinery of living organisms for fabricating functional bioelectronic interfaces, in vivo, defines a new class of micro-biohybrids enabling the seamless integration of technology with living biological systems. Previously, we have demonstrated the in vivo polymerization of conjugated oligomers forming conductors within the structures of plants. Here, we expand this concept by reporting that Hydra, an invertebrate animal, polymerizes the conjugated oligomer ETE-S both within cells that expresses peroxidase activity and within the adhesive material that is secreted to promote underwater surface adhesion. The resulting conjugated polymer forms electronically conducting and electrochemically active mu m-sized domains, which are inter-connected resulting in percolative conduction pathways extending beyond 100 mu m, that are fully integrated within the Hydra tissue and the secreted mucus. Furthermore, the introduction and in vivo polymerization of ETE-S can be used as a biochemical marker to follow the dynamics of Hydra budding (reproduction) and regeneration. This work paves the way for well-defined self-organized electronics in animal tissue to modulate biological functions and in vivo biofabrication of hybrid functional materials and devices.

Automated summary

This study demonstrates the fabrication of functional bioelectronic interfaces in living organisms by leveraging biocatalysis. The resulting electronically conducting and electrochemically active material is fully integrated within animal tissue and can be used as a biochemical marker for animal budding and regeneration.