Adapting organic electronics to biology (and not vice versa!)

In vitro models of biological systems are essential for our understanding of biological systems. In many cases where animal models have failed to translate to useful data for human diseases, physiologically relevant in vitro models can bridge the gap. Many difficulties exist in interfacing complex, 3D models with technology adapted for monitoring function. Polymeric electroactive materials and devices can bridge the gap between hard inflexible materials used for physical transducers and soft, compliant biological tissues. An additional advantage of these electronic materials is their flexibility for processing and fabrication in a wide range of formats. In this presentation, I will discuss our recent progress in adapting conducting polymer devices, specifically the Organic Electrochemical Transistor (OECT), to integrate with 3D cell models. We go further, by generating 3D electroactive scaffolds capable of hosting and monitoring cells. I will also highlight recent research using biomimetic models of cell membranes interfaced with organic electronic electrodes and transistors for drug discovery.