Researchers from the University of California, Irvine, and Columbia University in New York have developed a biocompatible sensor implant with embedded transistors in a soft material to monitor neurological functions.

The scientists claim that their invention features ion-gated, organic electrochemical transistors, which are more easily controlled chemically, biologically, and electronically by living tissues compared to rigid, silicon-based technologies.

Figure 1. UC Irvine Researchers Develop Flexible Bioelectronic Sensor for Brain Monitoring

These transistors are capable of functioning in delicate areas of the body and can adapt to the growth of organ structures [1]. Figure 1 shows UC Irvine Researchers Develop Flexible Bioelectronic Sensor for Brain Monitoring.

In contrast, traditional bioelectronics are made from rigid materials that pose a risk of toxicity when implanted in sensitive regions.

The researchers addressed this issue by designing the transistors asymmetrically, enabling them to function with a single biocompatible material.

Arranging the transistors into smaller, single polymer units simplifies the fabrication process, paving the way for large-scale manufacturing. This expansion of the technology could extend its use beyond the original neurological applications to any biopotential process.

Additionally, the device can be implanted in a developing animal and adapt to changes in tissue structures as the organism grows, a capability not possible with rigid, silicon-based implants.

“We demonstrated our ability to create robust, complementary integrated circuits capable of high-quality acquisition and processing of biological signals,” said project co-author Dion Khodagholy [2]. The complementary, internal, ion-gated, organic electrochemical transistors “will significantly expand the application of bioelectronics to devices that have traditionally depended on bulky, nonbiocompatible components.”

References:

1. https://engineering.uci.edu/news/2025/1/uc-irvine-columbia-university-researchers-invent-soft-bioelectronic-sensor-implant
2. https://www.eurekamagazine.co.uk/content/news/uc-irvine-researchers-invent-soft-bioelectronic-sensor-for-brain-monitoring

Cite this article:

Janani R (2025), UC Irvine Researchers Develop Flexible Bioelectronic Sensor for Brain Monitoring, AnaTechMaz, pp.295