3D Bioelectronics with a Remodellable Matrix for Long-Term Tissue Integration and Recording

Bioelectronics hold the key for understanding and treating disease. However, achieving stable, long-term interfaces between electronics and the body remains a challenge. Implantation of a bioelectronic device typically initiates a foreign body response, which can limit long-term recording and stimulation efficacy. Techniques from regenerative medicine have shown a high propensity for promoting integration of implants with surrounding tissue, but these implants lack the capabilities for the sophisticated recording and actuation afforded by electronics. Combining these two fields can achieve the best of both worlds. Here, the construction of a hybrid implant system for creating long-term interfaces with tissue is shown. Implants are created by combining a microelectrode array with a bioresorbable and remodellable gel. These implants are shown to produce a minimal foreign body response when placed into musculature, allowing one to record long-term electromyographic signals with high spatial resolution. This device platform drives the possibility for a new generation of implantable electronics for long-term interfacing.

Automated summary

Bioelectronics is crucial for understanding and treating disease, but stable, long-term interfaces with the body are challenging. Combining techniques from regenerative medicine and electronics can create implants that integrate with tissue and enable sophisticated recording and stimulation. A hybrid implant system using a microelectrode array and a bioresorbable gel is constructed and shown to produce minimal foreign body response when implanted in muscle, allowing for long-term electromyographic signal recording with high resolution. This opens up possibilities for a new generation of long-term implantable electronics.