Uncovering the Neuromodulatory Potential of Organic Semiconducting Oligomers in Hydra Vulgaris

Functional materials offer a valid alternative to traditional techniques for modulating neuronal function. By observing the behavioural patterns induced by neuroactive substances in simple animal models, valuable clues can be obtained on their modes of action and their potential to unlock new therapeutic applications. In this context, the nervous system of the small freshwater polyp Hydra, organized as a net of hundreds to thousands of neurons, provides a manageable yet complex framework to uncover fundamental interactions between neurons and neuromodulatory compounds, avoiding the issues raised by more complex nervous systems. The organic semiconducting oligomer ETE-S has already been shown to act as neuromodulator in <i>Hydra vulgaris</i> inducing precise behavioural responses. Here we present the results obtained by challenging <i>Hydra</i> with other thiophene-based trimers [2]. Through electrophysiological recordings and functional calcium imaging we expanded the knowledge on the neuromodulating effects of this class of semiconducting oligomers. These findings have the potential to shed light on fundamental chemical and physical phenomena in organic bioelectronic interfaces for neuromodulation, ultimately paving the way to innovative methods that could accelerate the development of this technology for clinical applications.