Recent advances in harnessing of natural polymers for bioelectronics

This review examines the integration of natural polymers with bioelectronic systems. This field has grown because of the need for biocompatible, biodegradable, and sustainable materials. These materials can replace conventional electronic components with biological macromolecules. Therefore, an overview of the natural polymers used in bioelectronics, including cellulose, chitosan, alginate, starch, hyaluronic acid, pectin, silk fibroin, gelatin, collagen, and lignin is provided. We describe the properties and applications of these materials in electronic devices. Further, ways to improve conductivity using materials like carbon nanotubes, graphene, MXenes, and conducting polymers such as polyaniline and PEDOT:PSS are suggested. Our review covers how to improve long-term use with self-healing features and moisture-absorbing agents. These methods help create smart materials that can interact with tissues, store energy, and detect signals. We also identify several challenges and limitations. It also highlights impurity concerns and weaknesses in mechanical strength and scalability. Additional interdisciplinary studies are required, and further studies should examine bio-inspired designs and transient electronics. Therefore, self-powered systems and hybrid materials should be investigated. They can support advanced innovations in medicine and technological development.