Multifunctional Ferroelectric Bioelectronic Interfaces for Long-Term Biosafe Vagus Nerve Modulation.

Abstract

Implantable bioelectronics offer precise control of neural activity and hold great therapeutic potential for neurological diseases and refractory autoimmune disorders. However, conventional implants suffer from non-adaptive nerve interfaces, including geometric mismatch, suture-related trauma, and absence of neuron-like bioelectrical signals, which significantly undermine their long-term biosafety and efficacy. Here we present a multifunctional ferroelectric bioelectronic interface (FBI) that integrates a bilayer natural polymer-based hydrogel, ferroelectric poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-trifluoro ethylene) (P(VDF-TrFE)) polymer, and photothermal carbon nanotubes (CNT), imparting unprecedented synergistic functions, including self-rolling geometric matching, strong interfacial adhesion that eliminates the need for suturing, and neuron-mimetic polarization-change-induced bioelectrical signaling. When applied to the vagus nerves, this adaptive FBI enables near-infrared-mediated neuromodulation that effectively reduces pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. Compared with conventional vagus nerve modulators, such innovative FBI avoids nerve compression, minimizes focal inflammation, and maintains persistent neuromodulation efficacy during long-term implantation. By integrating precise geometric adaptability, seamless bioadhesive fixation, bioelectrical biomimicry, and robust biosafety, the FBI platform offers a new paradigm for next‑generation implantable bioelectronics for durable nerve modulation and treatment of neurological and autoimmune conditions.