Perovskite Quantum Dot-Based Photovoltaic Biointerface for Photostimulation of Neurons

A promising avenue for vision restoration against retinal degeneration is the use of semiconductor-based photovoltaic biointerfaces to substitute natural photoreceptors. Instead of silicon, perovskite has emerged as an exciting material for solar energy harvesting, and its nanocrystalline forms generally offer better stability than their bulk counterparts in addition to the distinct synthesis and fabrication steps.

Herein, we synthesize tetramethylammonium lead iodide (TMAPbI₃) perovskite quantum dots (QDs) as a novel photoactive material for photovoltaic biointerfaces. While the TMAPbI₃ quantum dots and electrolyte interface induces Faradaic photocurrent under light illumination, the heterojunction with P3HT converts the charge-transfer process to a safe capacitive photocurrent with an improved ionic responsivity of 17.4 mA/W.

The integration of the 18-nm quantum dot thickness shows good biocompatibility with primary cultures of hippocampal neurons and the photoresponse of the biointerface triggered photostimulation of the neurons. The rise of perovskite materials can stimulate novel forms of photovoltaic retina implants.