Bioresorbable and optically readable triboelectric implants enabled by nanoscale iridophosphors

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Implantable Devices

Background:

• Implantable bioelectronics face challenges with inaccessibility, leading to undetected damage and functional loss.
• Battery reliance in implants introduces risks like limited lifespan, leakage, and the need for surgical removal of non-resorbable components.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a battery-free, bioresorbable triboelectric implant for real-time status monitoring and power generation.
• To enable externally readable, on-demand visualization of implant integrity and function.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a data-driven workflow combining machine learning and molecular selection to identify optimized iridium(III) complexes for optical reporting and triboelectric generation.
• Integrated transcutaneous phosphorescent readout with ultrasound-driven energy harvesting.
• Conducted in vivo studies in mice to assess device performance and bioresorption.

Main Results:

• Developed a bioresorbable triboelectric implant with visible optical readouts and ultrasound energy harvesting (up to 3.6 Vpp).
• Demonstrated in vivo tracking of implant position, morphology, and damage over 38 weeks.
• Correlated structural defects with loss of electrical output, confirming functional monitoring.

Conclusions:

• Established a transient in vivo power platform with morphology-reporting capabilities.
• The observable bioelectronic implant supports timely intervention by monitoring structural integrity and energy-harvesting function.
• Offers a promising route towards safer and more reliable implantable bioelectronic devices.