Recent Advances in the Direct Electron Transfer-Enabled Enzymatic Fuel Cells

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Biotechnology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Direct electron transfer (DET) in enzymatic fuel cells (EFCs) eliminates mediators, simplifying device architecture and enabling miniaturization.
• Deeply embedded redox cofactors in enzymes hinder efficient electron transfer to electrode surfaces, limiting EFC performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize recent methods (past 10 years) for improving DET rates in EFCs.
• To review the application of DET-enabled EFCs in biomedical and implantable devices.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on advancements in DET enhancement techniques for EFCs.
• Analysis of recent research on enzyme immobilization and electrode modification strategies.
• Compilation of case studies on DET-enabled EFC applications.

Main Results:

• Various strategies have been developed to overcome the challenge of electron transfer limitations in EFCs.
• Recent advancements have significantly improved DET rates, leading to enhanced EFC performance.
• Successful applications of DET-enabled EFCs in biomedical contexts have been reported.

Conclusions:

• Improving DET is crucial for advancing EFC technology.
• DET-enabled EFCs show significant promise for future biocompatible and implantable devices.
• Continued research in DET enhancement will drive innovation in energy harvesting and biosensing.