Mineral-originated bioelectronics for inhibition via lithium electrochemistry

Bioelectronic devices displaying high spatiotemporal resolution and programmability have vast potential for medical applications. However, achieving molecularly specific and fully electronic modulation of bioactivities with exceptional electrical control and precision remains challenging. Here, inspired by naturally occurring mineral-bio interactions, we develop the MOBILE (Mineral-Originated Bioelectronics for Inhibition via Lithium Electrochemistry) platform, which uses triphylite (LiFePO₄), a well-known cathode in battery research, as a bioelectronic electrode for specific ion (Li⁺) mediated biomodulation and achieve precise inhibition of neural activities. Our material platform, representative of a class of electroactive solid-state inorganic materials, operates safely in biofluids and enables ultrafine lithium generation precision, including near-binary ON/OFF switching of lithium injection and highly localized lithium production. Such localization only to the targeting tissue area lowers dosages substantially compared with conventional systematic lithium therapies and prevents potential side effects. We develop a direct photopatterning method that renders LiFePO₄ easily adaptable for various bioelectronic devices. Overall, the MOBILE platform demonstrates effective bioactivity inhibition in both the peripheral and central nervous system, making it a potential candidate for pain relief and pointing to future biomedical applications.