Integrated zwitterionic conjugated polymers for bioelectronics, biosensing, regenerative medicine, and energy applications

Abstract

The present invention is directed to a versatile and high performance zwitterionic CP platform, which integrates all desired functions into one material. This zwitterionic CP consists of the conducting backbone and multifunctional zwitterionic side chains. Non-conducting zwitterionic materials gain electronic conductivity through the conducting backbone and CPs obtain excellent biocompatibility, sensitivity to environmental stimuli and controllable antifouling properties via multifunctional zwitterionic side chains. Unique properties from two distinct materials (conducting materials and zwitterionic materials) are integrated into one material without sacrificing any properties. This platform can potentially be adapted for a range of applications (e.g. bioelectronics, tissue engineering, wound healing, robotic prostheses, biofuel cell, etc.), which all require high performance conducting materials with excellent antifouling/biocompatibility at complex biointerfaces. This conducting material platform will significantly advance the development of conducting polymers in the field of biomedicine and biotechnology.