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A Nano-Biohybrid-Based Bio-Solar Cell to Regulate the Electrical Signal Transmission to Living Cells for Biomedical
Joungpyo Lim1, Minkyu Shin1, Taehyung Ha1
1Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, 35 Baekbeom-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, 04107, Republic of Korea.
Advanced Materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)
|July 12, 2023
Summary
This study introduces a novel nano-biohybrid solar cell using bacteriorhodopsin and chlorophyllin for broad light absorption. The developed bio-solar cell generates a stable photocurrent, enabling precise regulation of muscle cell electrophysiological signals for biomedical applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Renewable Energy
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Bio-solar cells offer sustainable, biocompatible energy but suffer from limited light absorption and weak photocurrents.
- Current limitations hinder their potential in advanced biomedical applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a nano-biohybrid solar cell overcoming limitations of existing bio-solar cells.
- To broaden light absorption wavelengths and amplify photocurrent generation.
- To verify the feasibility of biomedical applications through cell control.
Main Methods:
- A nano-biohybrid solar cell was constructed using bacteriorhodopsin, chlorophyllin, and Ni/TiO2 nanoparticles.
- Bacteriorhodopsin and chlorophyllin were employed as light-harvesting biomolecules.
- Ni/TiO2 nanoparticles served as a photocatalyst to generate and amplify photocurrent.
Main Results:
- The developed bio-solar cell demonstrated broad visible light absorption.
- An amplified stationary photocurrent density of 152.6 nA cm-2 with a month-long lifetime was achieved.
- The bio-solar cell's photocurrent precisely regulated muscle cell electrophysiological signals via motor neurons.
Conclusions:
- The nano-biohybrid solar cell effectively broadens light absorption and enhances photocurrent generation.
- The device shows potential for controlling living cells through signal transmission.
- This technology paves the way for sustainable, biocompatible energy sources for wearable/implantable biodevices and bioelectronic medicines.
