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.