Cascade-heterogated biphasic gel iontronics for electronic-to-multi-ionic signal transmission

Science. 2023 Nov 3;382(6670):559-565. doi: 10.1126/science.adg0059. Epub 2023 Nov 2.

Abstract

Currently, electronics and iontronics in abiotic-biotic systems can only use electrons and single-species ions as unitary signal carriers. Thus, a mechanism of gating transmission for multiple biosignals in such devices is needed to match and modulate complex aqueous-phase biological systems. Here we report the use of cascade-heterogated biphasic gel iontronics to achieve diverse electronic-to-multi-ionic signal transmission. The cascade-heterogated property determined the transfer free energy barriers experienced by ions and ionic hydration-dehydration states under an electric potential field, fundamentally enhancing the distinction of cross-interface transmission between different ions by several orders of magnitude. Such heterogated or chemical-heterogated iontronics with programmable features can be coupled with multi-ion cross-interface mobilities for hierarchical and selective cross-stage signal transmission. We expect that such iontronics would be ideal candidates for a variety of biotechnology applications.

MeSH terms

  • Biotechnology
  • Electronics*
  • Electrons*
  • Ions
  • Water

Substances

  • Ions
  • Water