From Ion Channels to Brain Organoids—Bioelectronics for Actuation and Sensing Across Length Scales

Cell-to-cell communication is key for the functioning of biological systems and life itself. This communication involves the exchange of chemical and electrical signals mediated by ion channels and intermembrane proteins that control the motion of charges across the cell membrane. The ability to connect into this communication with bioelectronic devices can be used to augment the performance of electronic devices and develop bioelectric therapies. Here, I will present three examples of bioelectronic interfaces across length scales spanning from ion channels, cells, and organoids. The first is an ion conducting interface with a supported lipid bilayer that is capable of directly recording ionic currents from natural and synthetic ion channels. The second is a closed loop system that sets the membrane voltage (Vmem) in stem cells to drive them towards a specific fate. The third is a plug and play ion pump that easily interfaces with cell culture well plates and allows tuning of neuronal excitability in brain organoids. I will then conclude this talk how these technologies can be translated in vivo to develop new treatments.