Integrating Ion Channels with Bioelectronics for Biotic–Abiotic Systems

Abstract

Precise and highly regulated flow of biomolecules and ions through complex cellular networks is crucial for communication and information processing in living systems. In contrast, human-made electronics rely on the flow of electrons and holes through well-defined semiconductor networks for processing. Ion channels play vital roles in regulating the flow of ions and biomolecules across the cell membrane with a complexity unmatched in any semiconductor device. To enable biotic–abiotic communication and leverage this complexity, supported lipid bilayers (SLBs) create a planar cell membrane for integration with bioelectronics. This review discusses the integration of ion channels in bioelectronic devices for biotic–abiotic communication with enhanced functionality. This review begins with an introduction of natural and artificial ion channels across SLBs, continues with a description of bioelectronic devices integrating SLBs, and concludes with examples of functional ion channel bioelectronics.