Blood-catalyzed n-doped polymers for reversible optical neural control

Science. 2026 Apr 2;392(6793):eadu5500. doi: 10.1126/science.adu5500. Epub 2026 Apr 2.

Abstract

Biocompatible integration of synthetic materials with living tissue remains a major challenge for bioelectronics. In this case, substrate-free conducting polymer (CP) interfaces could help bridge this gap. We report in vivo assembly of n-doped poly(benzodifurandione) (n-PBDF) using whole blood-catalyzed polymerization in awake zebrafish and mice. This approach leverages endogenous catalysts, specifically hemoproteins, to form stable, thermally and ionically sensitive CP networks, ensuring long-term compatibility throughout the lifespan. We showcase the impact of this interface through reversible, cellular, and subcellular neuromodulation using near-infrared (NIR) light, including in vivo polymerized n-PBDF. Electrophysiological studies confirmed that n-PBDF alters intrinsic sodium ion channel excitability, and NIR light stimulation amplifies this modulation through thermoionic-induced shunting, providing on-demand, millisecond-scale reversible inhibitory control of excitability, a feature recapitulated in actively behaving mice.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biocompatible Materials* / chemistry
  • Catalysis
  • Hemeproteins* / metabolism
  • Infrared Rays
  • Mice
  • Neurons* / physiology
  • Optogenetics / methods
  • Polymerization
  • Polymers* / chemistry
  • Sodium Channels
  • Zebrafish

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Polymers
  • Sodium Channels
  • Hemeproteins