An on-demand bioresorbable neurostimulator

Abstract

Abstract Bioresorbable electroceuticals, as a therapeutic approach for peripheral neuropathy, hold substantial potential, given their capability of spontaneous degradation and elimination, thereby obviating the necessity for surgical removal. Recent advances in bioresorbable electronics provide significant progress with rational design strategies on materials and device structures, allowing for a wide range of clinical applications. Nonetheless, two major challenges must be addressed to enable their practical adaptation in medical settings. First, they require sustainable energy solutions with biodegradable components that can operate for prolonged periods through a biosafe powering mechanism. More importantly, their functionality is rarely trusted due to the unpredictable device lifetime, complicated by the complex degradation kinetics of polymers. We propose an on-demand bioresorbable neurostimulator to address these challenges, where clinical operations can be manipulated using biosafe ultrasound sources. The ultrasound-mediated transient mechanism enables: i) electrical stimulation through transcutaneous ultrasound-driven triboelectricity and ii) rapid device elimination using high-intensity ultrasound without adverse health consequences. Furthermore, our neurostimulator provides remarkable therapeutic benefits for both acquired peripheral nerve injury and hereditary peripheral neuropathy, as demonstrated through nerve conduction studies and histopathological analyses. Through this study, we anticipate that the on-demand bioresorbable neurostimulator will introduce a paradigm shift in medical implants to treat peripheral neuropathy.