Bio-derived nanocarbon-based functional materials for the next generation electroceutical devices - BIONAFE

Project summary

Bioelectronics, is an emerging technology in which real-time monitoring of human body is combined with its electrical stimulation. However, conventionally used bioelectronic materials induce a foreign body reaction resulting from the chemical, biological and mechanical mismatch between an implantable material and a living tissue, limiting accurate and chronic monitoring of electrophysiological signals. BIONAFE project aims to provide a bio-derived nanocarbon-based alternative to conventional devices, by developing a non-metallic, flexible material from carbon nanotube self-supporting films modified with a biologically active conducting hydrogel layer. Due to their porous nature and the presence of bioactive molecules/macromolecules, the material will be partially penetrated by cells, increasing the tissue/electrode integrity and facilitating a charge transfer process. These material will be used for the next generation bioelectronic devices, making the electro-therapies more efficient