Hydrogels Based on Conductive Polymers for Wearable Electrochemical Biosensors

Kmarakee Choed^*
*Correspondence: Kmarakee Choed, Department of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38544, Republic of Korea, Email:

Keywords

Biosensing • Hydrogel • Polymers • Healthcare • Biomarker • Electron

Introduction

Hydrogels are three-dimensional networks of hydrophilic polymers capable of absorbing and retaining large amounts of water or biological fluids. Their high water content and soft consistency mimic biological tissues, making them ideal for interfacing with the human body without causing irritation or immune responses. Hydrogels can be chemically modified to introduce specific functional groups or binding sites for biomolecules, enhancing their specificity in biosensing applications. Conductive polymers such as polyaniline, polypyrrole offer unique electrical and electrochemical properties. These polymers can efficiently transport electrons upon oxidation or reduction, making them suitable for transducing biochemical reactions into measurable electrical signals. Moreover, conductive polymers can be synthesized to be biocompatible and stable in physiological environments, essential for long-term biosensor applications [1].

The integration of hydrogels with conductive polymers combines the mechanical properties and biocompatibility of hydrogels with the electrical conductivity and electrochemical activity of conductive polymers. This synergistic combination enables the development of flexible, stretchable, and biointerfaced biosensors capable of conforming to complex surfaces like human skin. Choosing the appropriate hydrogel and conductive polymer is crucial for designing wearable biosensors. Factors such as swelling behavior, mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and electrical conductivity need to be carefully considered to ensure sensor performance and comfort for the user. Various fabrication techniques, including solution casting, electrospinning, and 3D printing, are employed to integrate hydrogels with conductive polymers into wearable biosensor platforms. These techniques allow for precise control over sensor morphology, thickness, and surface properties, influencing the sensor's sensitivity and response time [2]. Surface functionalization of hydrogels with biomolecules (e.g., enzymes, antibodies) enhances their selectivity towards target analytes. Conductive polymers can also be functionalized to improve their affinity for specific biomolecules, facilitating rapid and accurate detection in complex biological fluids [3,4].

Literature Review

Real-time monitoring of biomarkers during physical activities can optimize training regimes and prevent overexertion or dehydration. Hydrogelbased biosensors integrated into wearable devices provide athletes and fitness enthusiasts with actionable insights to improve performance and recovery. Ensuring the biocompatibility and long-term stability of hydrogelconductive polymer composites remains a challenge in wearable biosensor development. Further research is needed to enhance material durability and minimize sensor degradation over time. Improving the signal-to-noise ratio of biosensors is critical for achieving accurate and reliable measurements in dynamic physiological environments. Advances in sensor design, signal amplification techniques, and data processing algorithms are essential for enhancing sensor performance. Scalable manufacturing processes are required to facilitate the commercialization and widespread adoption of hydrogel-based conductive polymer biosensors. Collaboration between researchers, engineers, and industry stakeholders is vital to address manufacturing challenges and reduce production costs [5].

Discussion

Hydrogel-based conductive polymer biosensors represent a promising technology for wearable electrochemical sensing applications. By leveraging the unique properties of hydrogels and conductive polymers, researchers can develop next-generation biosensors capable of real-time biomarker monitoring in healthcare, environmental, and fitness settings. Addressing current challenges and exploring new avenues for innovation will pave the way for the future development and commercialization of wearable biosensing devices, ultimately improving human health and well-being. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the principles, design strategies, fabrication techniques, applications, challenges, and future perspectives of hydrogel-based conductive polymer biosensors for wearable electrochemical sensing. Through continued interdisciplinary research and technological advancements, hydrogel-based biosensors are poised to make a significant impact on personalized healthcare and environmental monitoring in the years to come [6].

Conclusion

Wearable biosensors based on hydrogel-conductive polymer composites offer non-invasive monitoring of biomarkers such as glucose, lactate, and pH in sweat or interstitial fluid. These sensors provide valuable insights into an individual's health status, enabling personalized healthcare management and early disease detection. The flexibility and sensitivity of hydrogel-conductive polymer biosensors make them suitable for environmental monitoring applications. These sensors can detect pollutants, heavy metals, and toxins in water or soil, contributing to environmental sustainability and public health.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

None.

References

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