Protein-Based Biomaterials for Bio-Optoelectronics: A Review of Bio-Integrated and Biodegradable Optodevices

Growing development of biomaterials has stimulated the biomedical sector to seek innovative alternatives to conventional medical technologies. Bio-optoelectronic devices are emerging as promising tools, integrating biologically derived components, biodegradable end-of-life approaches, and highly biocompatible materials with optoelectronic systems. The devices combine optical and electronic properties with biological interfaces, enabling more effective interaction with tissues and cellular systems. Applied research is motivated by the need to improve the efficacy and biocompatibility of medical devices while reducing invasiveness and adverse effects. Wearable devices and implants based on flexible, biodegradable, or bioinspired materials allow better adaptation to biological tissues and real-time monitoring or modulation of physiological processes. Proteins are attracting increasing attention due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, mechanical flexibility, and ability to respond to optical and electrical stimuli. Furthermore, the combination of proteins with synthetic materials and nanomaterials in biohybrid platforms offers new opportunities for advanced bio-optoelectronic systems. This review summarizes key developments in bio-optoelectronic devices, focusing on protein-based materials; their roles in sensing, imaging, and neuromodulation; and their use in wearable, implantable, and biotech systems. Crucial challenges, including long-term stability and integration with biological systems, are also discussed, together with future perspectives for diagnostic and therapeutic applications.