Adhesive bioelectronics for closed-loop therapy

Abstract

Wearable and implantable devices mark a major advancement in biomedical engineering, enabling continuous bio-signal monitoring and treatment based on precise feedback. However, traditional rigid bioelectronic devices face challenges in seamlessly interfacing with soft organs, often leading to tissue damage and inflammation. To address these issues, soft bioelectronics that better conform to the body while maintaining performance accuracy have been developed. Despite these advancements, the dynamic nature of body movements and the complex chemical environment in the body can compromise the stability of devices over time. Therefore, recent innovations have focused on ultrathin and stretchable designs that enhance conformal contact through van der Waals forces, as well as the incorporation of adhesive hydrogels, to improve adhesion, even in the presence of biofluids. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements in wearable and implantable bioelectronics aimed at achieving conformal tissue adhesion and long-term stability, covering structural modifications to bilayer designs. Finally, the integration of bioelectronics with closed-loop therapies to significantly enhance treatment efficacy is explored.