Electro-conductive Biomaterials: Bridging Bioelectronics and Tissue Regeneration

Abstract

Electro-conductive biomaterials serve as a vital bridge between bioelectronics and regenerative medicine by merging electrical functionality with biocompatible structures. These materials facilitate essential cellular behaviors such as communication, migration, proliferation, and differentiation processes that are crucial for the repair and regeneration of neural, cardiac, musculoskeletal, and dermal tissues. Recent advancement of conductive polymers, nanomaterials, and hydrogels has facilitated the creation of smart scaffolds and implantable devices that can facilitate cellular organization and provide electrical cues to facilitate tissue growth. The inclusion of electroconductive materials with electrical stimulation promote regeneration and open pathways to functional tissue fabrication and bioelectronic interfaces. In this study, we conducted a systematic review of electroconductive biomaterials including classification, conductivity mechanisms, biocompatibility, and biodegradation. We also explored applications across a variety of tissue engineering areas of study, recent developments in fabrication techniques, and the technical and clinical challenges that will need to be solved. In the end, we elucidated the potential of these materials to pave the way for the future of regenerative medicine and bioelectronic integration.