Flexible electronic patches have been widely studied in various fields. However, they still face serious challenges in cardio-brain signaling monitoring to achieve accurate adhesion and detection with compatibility in mildly humid environments. To tackle these challenges, we engineered a gelatin hydrogel film cross-linked with a biocompatible matrix factor and combined it with a blend of liquid metal and PVP to create the flexible electronic patch. The flexible patch has good biocompatibility and fatigue resistance due to the incorporation of liquid metal and natural gelatin, with the conductivity of liquid metal and minimal toxicity of the gelatin film. It is possible to securely insert it into the body for a duration of 3 weeks while maintaining monitoring functionality and withstanding 10 000 cycles of flexural fatigue. This research provides an innovative approach to the future advancement of flexible electronic patches.
Suhao Wang,Lixuan Li,Shun Zhang,Qianqian Jiang,Pengxian Li,Chengjun Wang,Rui Xiao,Xiao-Ming Li,Jizhou Song
Electrophysiology and optogenetics are pivotal in neuroscience for probing and modulating neural activities, playing a vital role in unraveling the complexities of brain functionality. Despite their importance, the efficacy of existing devices is hampered by insufficient functional integration, pronounced foreign body reactions, and physical constraints that impede natural animal behaviors. Here, we develop a multifunctional, ultraflexible neural probe designed for simultaneous electrophysiological monitoring and optical neural modulation, along with mechanical properties that are conducive to flexibility and compliance. By integrating a wireless neural signal acquisition and stimulation circuit, we achieved wireless recording of brain signals in mice and wireless optogenetic control over their locomotor behavior. The multifunctional ultraflexible probe presented in this study holds substantial promise for closed-loop brain-machine interfaces and deepening our understanding of neural circuit functions. This innovative approach addresses the aforementioned limitations by a comprehensive solution for in vivo neural interrogation and manipulation, marking a significant advancement in the tools available for neuroscience research.