Work

Catechol‐Based Molecular Memory Film for Redox Linked Bioelectronics

Year: 2020

Type: article

Abstract: Redox is emerging as an alternative modality for bio‐device communication. In contrast to the more familiar ionic electrical modality: (i) redox involves the flow of electrons through oxidation–reduction reactions; (ii) the aqueous medium is an “insulator” to this electron flow since free electrons do not normally exist in water; and (iii) redox states are intrinsically digital (oxidized and reduced). By exploiting these unique features, a catechol‐based molecular memory film is reported. This memory is fabricated by electrochemically grafting catechol to a chitosan–agarose polysaccharide network to generate a redox‐active but non‐conducting matrix. The redox state of the grafted catechol moieties serves as the 2‐state memory. It is shown that these redox states: can be repeatedly switched by diffusible mediators (electron shuttles); can be easily read electrically or optically; are stable for at least 2 h in the absence of energy; are sensitive to biologically relevant oxidizing and reducing contexts; and can be switched enzymatically. This catechol‐based molecular memory film is a simple circuit element for redox linked bioelectronics.

Source: Advanced Electronic Materials

DOI: 10.1002/aelm.202000452