The field of bioelectronic medicine represents the convergence of concepts from multiple disciplines, including Biomaterials Science, Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience and Medicine, all developing quickly to treat chronic diseases.
Royce Research Area lead, Dr Jonny Blaker, acted as a co-host of this international workshop which recognised that while our ability to precisely control cell functionalities has been identified as a key underpinning factor, many research outcomes from academia are yet to be translated to bioelectronic devices.
The bioengineering approach of integrating electronic systems with biomaterial-based scaffolds was discussed by both global experts as well as early career researchers. The present status of understanding the applications of electroactive biomaterials to deliver bioelectrical cues for regulating cell fate processes was also reviewed.
Along with the fundamental physical phenomenon at the tissue-electrode interface, advancements in nanoelectronic devices were presented, together with the emergence of the soft and flexible electronics as next-generation bioelectronic devices, with a more stable and compatible biointerface.
It is clear that there was a collective ambition to pursue innovation to translate biomaterials-based biophysical stimulation towards the development of bioartificial organs.
The event saw insights into the theme from a host of international speakers including University of Manchester Head of Department of Materials at the University of Manchester (UoM), Professor Sarah Cartmell.
The virtual event was co-ordinated by Professor Bikram Basu of the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, who is also a visiting Professor at UoM, and co-convenor Dr. Ashutosh Kumar Dubey of the Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi.
