Active Biointegrated Living Electronics for Multi-Dimensional Inflammation Management

Life-like and seamless interfaces between electronic devices and biological tissues stand to revolutionize disease diagnosis and treatment. However, biological and biomechanical disparities between synthetic materials and living tissues present challenges at bioelectrical signal transduction interfaces. Here, we introduce the active biointegrated living electronics (ABLE) platform, encompassing capabilities across the biogenic, biomechanical, and bioelectrical dimensions simultaneously. The living biointerface, comprising a bioelectronics layout and a <i>Staphylococcus epidermidis</i>-laden hydrogel composite, enables multi-modal signal transduction at the microbial-mammalian nexus. The extracellular components of the living hydrogels, prepared through thermal release of naturally occurring amylose polymer chains, are viscoelastic, capable of sustaining the bacteria with high viability, and facilitate freeze-storage of the ABLE device. Through electrophysiological recordings, and wireless probing of skin electrical impedance, body temperature, and humidity, ABLE monitors microbial-driven intervention in psoriasis (an intricate autoimmune skin disease) through the innate microbial activities. Comprehensive mechanistic studies show that <i>Staphylococcus epidermidis</i> from the living bioelectronics impedes activation of initiating dendritic cells and subsequent inflammatory phases of psoriasis pathogenesis. The ABLE platform offers a multifunctional and life-like biointerface solution for addressing intricate biomedical challenges, including autoimmune diseases and rehabilitation needs.