Wearable Textile Organic Electrochemical Transistors and Biosensors (OECTs) for Non-Invasive Real-Time Monitoring of Neurodegenerative Disorders

Disorders affecting the central nervous system (CNS), such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases (APDs), ADHD, stroke, epilepsy, and migraines, contribute to morbidity and disability worldwide [1], highlighting the need for early diagnosis and real-time monitoring tools. Emerging wearable biosensors offer promising solutions for non-invasive, real-time disease monitoring through bodily fluids, such as sweat analysis, providing timely and personalized healthcare solutions [2]. We present the design and fabrication of wearable textile-integrated OECTs using functionalized conducting polymers for continuous monitoring. OECTs offer high transconductance, facile functionalization, and seamless integration, making them ideal for sensitive, wearable biosensing applications. OECTs are used for early diagnosis and continuous physiological monitoring, supporting personalized therapeutic platforms [3,4]. The active channel comprises PEDOT: PSS blended with polyaniline (PANI) to enhance electrical performance and biocompatibility. Functionalization with dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid (DBSA) improves interfacial adhesion, while polyethylene glycol (PEG) enhances ionic mobility, reduces biofouling, and maintains long-term performance, enhancing sensitivity in OECT biosensors for PD diagnostics. Device performance is evaluated through transconductance, sensitivity, operational stability, and responsiveness to PD-relevant sweat biomarkers. Overall, the system demonstrates significant potential for decentralizing neurological healthcare technologies.

References

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