Analysis of the Neurotropic and Anti-inflammatory Effects of Neuroelectrode Functionalisation with a Heparan Sulphate Mimetic

Abstract

Further in the search for biomimicry of the properties analogous to neural tissues, and with an ultimate goal of mitigating electrode deterioration via reactive host cell response and glial scar formation, the bio-functionalisation of PEDOT:PTS neural coating is here presented using a heparan mimetic termed (HM) F6. A sulphated mimetic polyanion, with a potential role in neuromodulation in neurodegenerative diseases, and used here for the first time as neural coating. This work acts as a first step towards the use of HM biological dopants, to enhance neuroelectrode functionality, to promote neural outgrowth and to maintain minimal glial scar formation in vitro at the neural-interface. Further, this study opens new possibilities for the evaluation of glycan mimetics in neuroelectrode functionalisation.