Doping-induced assembly interface for noninvasive in vivo local and systemic immunomodulation

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Neuroscience
• Immunology

Background:

• Peripheral neural interfaces are crucial for modulating immune responses but face challenges due to nerve complexity and tissue integration.
• Existing static interfaces often fail, hindering progress in neural circuit research and clinical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a self-assembling, tissue-adaptive electrode for peripheral neural interfaces.
• To overcome the limitations of static electronic components in dynamic neural environments.

Main Methods:

• A single-component nanosheet colloid containing dopants, conducting polymers, stabilizers, and an MXene catalyst was developed.
• The colloid was delivered via jet injection and self-assembled into a conductive, biodegradable interface using reactive oxygen species for doping.

Main Results:

• The interface effectively regulated local immune activity and promoted sensory and motor nerve functional restoration in nerve-injured mice.
• In freely moving mice, the interface engaged the vagal-adrenal axis, induced catecholamine release, and suppressed systemic cytokine storms.

Conclusions:

• This self-assembling, tissue-adaptive neural interface strategy targets nerve substructures for enhanced local and systemic immune modulation.
• The technology offers a promising approach for developing dynamic neural interfaces for therapeutic applications.