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Tissue-Adhesive Carbon Nanotube Bioelectronics with Intrinsic Stretchability and Mechanical Adaptation.
Sungjun Yoon1,2, Hyelim Lee2,3, Sumin Kim2,4
1Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea.
ACS Nano
|March 6, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a new soft bioelectronic interface using a self-healing polymer and carbon nanotubes for stable tissue contact. The material demonstrates excellent mechanical properties and enables reliable sensing and stimulation in wet, dynamic environments.
Area of Science:
- Soft bioelectronics
- Biomaterials science
- Tissue engineering
Background:
- Soft bioelectronic interfaces require conformal, low-noise contact with dynamic, hydrated tissues.
- Mechanical mismatches between devices and tissues can impede performance and cause damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel soft bioelectronic interface with enhanced wet adhesion and biocompatibility.
- To evaluate the mechanical, electrochemical, and *in vivo* performance of the new interface for sensing and stimulation applications.
Main Methods:
- Integration of a viscoelastic, self-healing polymer (SHP) with a carbon nanotube (CNT) network and a catechol-modified alginate (Alg-CA) overlayer.
- Mechanical characterization using tensile tests and fracture-energy analysis.
- Electrochemical evaluation *in vitro* and assessment of wet adhesion on porcine tissues.
- *In vivo* testing in rats for electrocardiogram recording, pacing, and nerve stimulation.
Main Results:
- The CNT-SHP composite maintained mechanical properties similar to pristine SHP across various strain rates.
- The Alg-CA overlayer improved electrochemical coupling, *in vitro* stability, and wet adhesion under cyclic loading.
- *In vivo* studies demonstrated motion-tolerant electrocardiogram recording, reliable pacing, and effective nerve stimulation with reduced adverse tissue response.
Conclusions:
- The developed bioelectronic interface exhibits excellent mechanical stability, wet adhesion, and biocompatibility.
- The material shows significant potential for long-term, stable sensing and stimulation in dynamic and hydrated biological tissues.
- This technology advances the development of next-generation implantable bioelectronic devices.
