journal article·2026-01-24

Molecular Engineering of Conjugated Polymers for Soft Bioelectronic Applications

Gang Song, Zhiran Zhang, Yuhang Dong, Ziyi Xu, Shijie Peng, Ting Li, Xiao Zhao, Lianhui Wang, Jianwu Wang, Ting Wang

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Abstract

ABSTRACT The paradigm shift toward soft bioelectronics represents a fundamental transformation in how biological signals are recorded, processed, and modulated, enabling seamless integration with the complex, dynamic architecture of living tissues. Conjugated polymers have emerged as uniquely transformative platforms that bridge the mechanical, electrical, and chemical disparities between rigid inorganic electronics and compliant biological systems, owing to their tunable chemical structures, adjustable energy level bandgaps, and excellent processability. Numerous strategies have been developed to address key challenges in bioelectronic interfaces, including the enhancement of conductivity, improvement of low interfacial adhesion, and stability during prolonged use. This review summarizes molecular design strategies that enhance the performance of conjugated polymers, including PEDOT:PSS, P3HT, polyaniline, and novel n‐type semiconductors, for their integration into soft bioelectronics. We seek to provide a deeper understanding of the relationship between the design, properties, and biological applications of conjugated polymer materials, thereby advancing the development of wearable and implantable electronic systems. We also discuss current challenges and future directions in the field of flexible conjugated polymer‐based wearable electronics. Looking forward, flexible conjugated polymer bioelectronics is poised to evolve into multifunctional, intelligent, and programmable platforms, offering technical support for the next generation wearable devices.
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Research context

OpenAlex topics: Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials · Conducting polymers and applications · Covalent Organic Framework Applications

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

Affiliations

State Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (LoFE) & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Smart Biomaterials and Theranostic Technology Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM) Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications Nanjing China

Institute for Digital Molecular Analytics and Science (IDMxS) Nanyang Technological University Singapore Singapore

Innovative Centre for Flexible Devices (iFLEX) Max Planck‐NTU Joint Lab for Artificial Senses School of Materials Science and Engineering Nanyang Technological University Singapore Singapore

Funding

National Natural Science Foundation of China

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