NeuroWorm: Toward movable and long-term implantable bioelectronic fiber

Abstract

Bioelectronics establishes a critical bridge between the nervous system and electronic devices, with long-term implantable bioelectronic devices offering powerful tools for assessing neural functions. Inspired by earthworms, this research employs a coiling strategy to transform two-dimensional bioelectronic devices into one-dimensional microfiber sensors, obtaining a stretchable, mobile NeuroWorm capable of simultaneously monitoring bioelectrical and biomechanical signals. Specifically, this device incorporates over 60 discrete electrode channels and capacitive stretch sensors, enabling minimally invasive implantation and sustained monitoring of bioelectrical and mechanical signals within rats (over 43 weeks). Furthermore, the NeuroWorm can navigate flexibly within the brain or on muscle surfaces, enabling dynamic positioning and movement toward target sites for real-time observation. This work marks a transition in bioelectronic devices from static probes to active, intelligent, and adaptive systems, opening new pathways for long-term, minimally invasive and mobile neurological assessment.