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Updated: May 3, 2026

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Published on: November 22, 2021
Wireless Optogenetic Targeting Nociceptors Helps Host Cells Win the Competitive Colonization in Implant-Associated
Xinyu Fang1,2,3, Haiqi Ding1,2,3, Yang Chen1,2,3
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350000, China.
Abstract:
The role of nociceptive nerves in modulating immune responses to harmful stimuli via pain or itch induction remains controversial. Compared to conventional surgery, various implant surgeries are more prone to infections even with low bacterial loads. In this study, an optogenetic technique is introduced for selectively activating peripheral nociceptive nerves using a fully implantable, wirelessly rechargeable optogenetic device. By targeting nociceptors in the limbs of awake, freely moving mice, it is found that activation induces anticipatory immunity in the innervated territory and enhances the adhesion of various host cells to the implant surface. This effect mediates acute immune cell-mediated killing of Staphylococcus aureus on implants and enables the host to win "implant surface competition" against Staphylococcus aureus. This finding provides new strategies for preventing and treating implant-associated infections.
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