Electroactive materials respond to external stimuli—such as electric fields, light, heat, or mechanical forces—by altering their physical, chemical, or electrical properties. These dynamic changes can be leveraged to modulate cellular processes. Our work focuses on developing innovative electroactive materials and devices for biomedical applications, including neuroprosthetics and bioelectronic medicine. (Denison, Proctor, Nair and Stevens Group).

For example, we have developed a diverse library of semiconducting polymer nanoparticles (SPNs) that can be activated by light across the visible and near-infrared spectra (Stevens group). Using a novel plug-and-play approach, we can easily attach biorecognition elements to these SPNs, enabling them to target specific cell types. By selecting different semiconducting polymers and adjusting light stimulation parameters, these nanoparticles can be adapted for a wide range of biomedical applications. These include cancer imaging, photodynamic and photothermal therapies, as well as neuroprosthetics and bioelectronic medicine.

This work describes the synthesis of semiconductor polymer nanoparticles (SPNs) with controlled surface properties, including adjustable PEG coverage, azide group density, and attachment of cancer-targeting proteins. It includes (a) a method for modifying the SPN material with different levels of PEG and azide groups, and (b) a strategy for linking targeting proteins like IgG, Fab fragments, and affibodies to the particles using click chemistry. Figure adapted from https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.202300413.