Nanomaterial-based biohybrid hydrogel in bioelectronics

Abstract

Despite the broadly applicable potential in the bioelectronics, organic/inorganic material-based bioelectronics have some limitations such as hard stiffness and low biocompatibility. To overcome these limitations, hydrogels capable of bridging the interface and connecting biological materials and electronics have been investigated for development of hydrogel bioelectronics. Although hydrogel bioelectronics have shown unique properties including flexibility and biocompatibility, there are still limitations in developing novel hydrogel bioelectronics using only hydrogels such as their low electrical conductivity and structural stability. As an alternative solution to address these issues, studies on the development of biohybrid hydrogels that incorporating nanomaterials into the hydrogels have been conducted for bioelectronic applications. Nanomaterials complement the shortcomings of hydrogels for bioelectronic applications, and provide new functionality in biohybrid hydrogel bioelectronics. In this review, we provide the recent studies on biohybrid hydrogels and their bioelectronic applications. Firstly, representative nanomaterials and hydrogels constituting biohybrid hydrogels are provided, and next, applications of biohybrid hydrogels in bioelectronics categorized in flexible/wearable bioelectronic devices, tissue engineering, and biorobotics are discussed with recent studies. In conclusion, we strongly believe that this review provides the latest knowledge and strategies on hydrogel bioelectronics through the combination of nanomaterials and hydrogels, and direction of future hydrogel bioelectronics. Graphical Abstract

Recent Advances and Developments in Injectable Conductive Polymer Gels for Bioelectronics

“…Hybrid injectable hydrogels have been developed through the incorporation of conductive nanomaterials within polymer hydrogel networks. 52 2.1.2.1. Hybrid Polymeric Hydrogels from Conductive Carbonaceous Nanomaterials.…”

“…Hybrid injectable hydrogels have been developed through the incorporation of conductive nanomaterials within polymer hydrogel networks …”

Carbon-based nanocomposites for biomedical applications

“…When a nanocomposite is introduced into a cell or tissue, it can be coated with a hydrogel to induce the desired effect while maintaining the function of the tissue. 41 In addition, silica dioxide (SiO 2 ) can be used to coat carbon nanomaterials. 42 Silica coating can improve the structural integrity of carbon nanomaterials, reduce toxicity, and provide a platform for further functionalization with therapeutic agents.…”

Biomimetic Bone-Like Composite Hydrogel Scaffolds Composed of Collagen Fibrils and Natural Hydroxyapatite for Promoting Bone Repair

“…The BBCHS formed by the mixture of the two is a polymer network with high moisture content, flexibility, and good biocompatibility, which is similar to that of human tissues. This strategy for bionic bone engineering enables the BBCHS to have a microstructure and chemical composition similar to that of natural bone. − This not only improves the inherent brittleness and low fracture toughness of HAp but also improves its osteogenic potentials. According to experimental results, the BBCHS demonstrates biocompatibility and high bone-promoting activity and can adapt to the harsh environment of bone defects, maintain morphological stability for a long time, and slowly degrade to match the rate of bone regeneration.…”