Biodegradable graphene-oxide platform senses neurotransmitters, modulates brain astrocyte signaling

Researchers at Italy’s National Research Council (CNR) – specifically its Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (Cnr-Isof) and Institute of Nanostructured Materials (Cnr-Ismn) – working with Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, the University of Ferrara, and the University of Bologna, have developed a graphene-based bioelectronic platform that combines sustainable materials, biochemical sensing, and neural stimulation in a single biodegradable device, aimed at both monitoring and modulating activity in brain tissue.

The platform is built from poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and graphene oxide, processed through a green, water-based manufacturing route and turned into conductive electrodes through laser functionalization rather than more environmentally costly fabrication methods. The approach is meant to address the growing footprint of implantable and wearable medical electronics by keeping the device fully biodegradable and biocompatible while still delivering the electrical performance needed for neural interfacing.

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