Hydrogel-Based Soft Electronic Implants
This research endeavors to address the limitations associated with traditional metal-based electrodes commonly utilized in neural stimulation, electrophysiological recording, and implantable medical devices. Although these electrodes demonstrate efficacy, they exhibit high modulus and bending stiffness, resulting in mechanical mismatches with soft biological tissues, leading to inflammation and diminished biocompatibility. By designing and developing conductive hydrogel-based soft implants with combined electronic and ionic conductivity and tissue-like mechanical properties, my work ensures seamless integration, reduces immune responses, and enhances overall performance. These advancements are driving the development of next-generation bioelectronic devices, thereby improving diagnostics, therapeutic applications, and the longevity of implants.
Shape responsive composite patterns. (Unpublished data)
Shape-Adaptive Devices for Dynamic Tissue Interfaces
This research aims to overcome the limitations of traditional 2D bioelectronic devices in conforming to the dynamic, 3D surfaces of biological tissues. Existing shape-morphing solutions often rely on non-biocompatible stimuli such as heat, UV light, or chemical triggers, which can damage delicate tissues or be incompatible with physiological environments. By developing a shape-adaptive composite that responds to benign physiological stimuli, we enable seamless, non-invasive integration with soft, irregular tissues. These self-adapting electrode arrays have broad applications in neural stimulation, electrophysiological recording, and therapeutic interventions, offering a transformative approach to bioelectronics in healthcare.
Schematic illustration of sensor locations for ECG and EMG recordings and photographs of nanocomposite and gel electrodes. npj flex. electron., 2022, 6, 41
Skin-like, Soft, and Stretchable Wearable Electronics
This research focuses on designing and fabricating soft, stretchable, dry composite-based wearable electronics that mimic the properties of human skin, offering groundbreaking solutions for health monitoring and bioelectronic applications. By incorporating advanced nanomaterials, these gel-free devices achieve exceptional flexibility, comfort, and stable signal performance, even during dynamic movements. Their seamless, skin-like design addresses the limitations of traditional rigid electrodes, enabling long-term, non-invasive use. My work aspires to transform wearable technologies, making them more reliable, accessible, and versatile for a wide range of applications.
(a) Silk hydrogel, and (b) SEM of freeze-dried hydrogel. (Unpublished data)
This research pioneers biodegradable hydrogels as scaffolds for next-generation implantable biochemical sensors, mimicking soft tissue properties for biocompatible, degradable interfaces. These hydrogels enable real-time biomarker monitoring without surgical removal, addressing foreign body response, fibrosis, and biofouling. By enhancing the specificity, selectivity, and stability of biochemical sensors, my work drives the development of accessible solutions for disease diagnosis, personalized treatments, and effective chronic disease management, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes for diverse populations.
3D reconstructed primary hippocampal neuronal culture in the transparent fibrillar hydrogel. (Unpublished data)
Transparent Fibrillar Hydrogel as an Artificial Extracellular Matrix
Fibrillar hydrogels mimic the extracellular matrix by replicating its fibrous architecture. This provides structural support and promotes cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation—key features absent in traditional 2D cell culture. Incorporating sophisticated biochemical and mechanical cues, these hydrogels create a more physiologically relevant environment for neuronal growth and tissue reconstruction. My research focuses on developing biocompatible, superabsorbent fibrillar hydrogels with tunable properties, enabling 3D neuronal reconstruction and robust platforms for investigating cell physiology and fabricating tissue outside the organism. This work advances regenerative neuroscience and personalized medicine.