An Electroadhesive Hydrogel Interface for Prolonged Gastrointestinal Theranostics

Establishing a robust and intimate mucosal interface that allows medical devices to remain for extended periods is valuable for theranostic purposes. However, achieving this goal has proven extremely challenging, particularly within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Here, we report the development of <b>e-GLUE</b>, an <b>e</b>lectroadhesive hydro<b>g</b>e<b>l</b> interface for robust and prolonged m<b>u</b>cosal r<b>e</b>tention following electrical activation. Notably, this novel mechanism can amplify the adhesion performance on the mucosa by up to 30-fold and extend in vivo GI retention of e-GLUE devices for up to 30 days. Strong mucosal adhesion occurs within one minute of electrical activation, despite the presence of luminal fluid, mucus exposure, and organ motility, thereby ensuring compatibility with complex in vivo environments. In swine studies, we demonstrate the utility of e-GLUE for instantaneous mucosal hemostasis, sustained local delivery of therapeutics, and intimate biosensing in the GI tract. This system can enable improved treatments for various GI conditions, including recurrent gastric bleeding, inflammatory bowel disease, and potentially early monitoring of GI cancers.