journal article·2026-03

A Ferroelectric‐Liquid Metal Hybrid Artificial Photoreceptor with Biomimetic Visual Adaptation

Wenlong Zhang, Jinyu Ma, Xi Liu, Han Liu, Wei Wang, Qinguan Zhang, Tian Lu, Heting Li, Cheng Sun, Yaning He

Advanced Functional Materials· Volume 36· Issue 22
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Abstract

Abstract This study develops a photo‐responsive hybrid material based on azo polymer grafted liquid metal nanoparticles embedded in a poly(vinylidene fluoride‐trifluoroethylene) ferroelectric copolymer matrix for use as an artificial retinal prosthesis. The hybrid film with an optimal azo polymer grafted liquid metal nanoparticles loading of 5 wt% exhibits a strong photoelectric response across visible and near‐infrared wavelengths, achieving a maximum photovoltage of over 200 mV. Uniquely, the material mimics both scotopic and photopic adaptation mechanisms of natural human vision without requiring external circuitry. Implanted in rodent models of retinal degeneration, the prosthesis effectively restored visual sensitivity to visible light and extended perception to infrared light, as confirmed through electrophysiological recordings and light‐dark behavioral tests. The implant also demonstrates stable integration and good biocompatibility over three months in vivo. This work offers a promising ferroelectric polymer‐based platform for advanced bioelectronic applications, particularly in the development of next‐generation retinal prostheses with broad‐spectrum light perception.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Neuroscience and Neural Engineering · Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials · Photochromic and Fluorescence Chemistry

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Department of Chemical Engineering Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials (MOE) Tsinghua University Beijing 100084 China

Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education Co‐Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products Nantong University Nantong Jiangsu 226001 China

Eye Institute Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University Medical School of Nantong University Nantong Jiangsu 226001 China

Funding

National Natural Science Foundation of China

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