A biodegradable and flexible neural interface for transdermal optoelectronic modulation and regeneration of peripheral nerves

Optoelectronic neural interfaces can leverage the photovoltaic effect to convert light into electrical current, inducing charge redistribution and enabling nerve stimulation. This method offers a non-genetic and remote approach for neuromodulation. Developing biodegradable and efficient optoelectronic neural interfaces is important for achieving transdermal stimulation while minimizing infection risks associated with device retrieval, thereby maximizing therapeutic outcomes. We propose a biodegradable, flexible, and miniaturized silicon-based neural interface capable of transdermal optoelectronic stimulation for neural modulation and nerve regeneration. Enhancing the device interface with thin-film molybdenum significantly improves the efficacy of neural stimulation. Our study demonstrates successful activation of the sciatic nerve in rodents and the facial nerve in rabbits. Moreover, transdermal optoelectronic stimulation accelerates the functional recovery of injured facial nerves. Optoelectronic neural interfaces allow for non-genetic and remote modulation of neural activity. Here, the authors propose a biodegradable, flexible and miniaturized neural interface based on molybdenum-modified silicon diodes that allows transdermal neuromodulation and promotes nerve regeneration.