Bioresorbable batteries for transient ingestible bioelectronics

Abstract

Ingestible and implantable electronic devices are transforming personalized healthcare by enabling real-time sensing, targeted therapy and diagnostic capabilities. However, powering these systems remains a major challenge owing to biocompatibility concerns and the environmental impact of conventional batteries. Here we present a bioresorbable magnesium–molybdenum trioxide (Mg–MoO3) paper battery that delivers high electrochemical performance under physiological conditions and safely degrades over time. The battery provides a peak open-circuit voltage of 1.84 V and supports capsule-scale ingestible electronic systems incorporating bioresorbable power sources for two key gastrointestinal applications: battery-assisted radio-frequency identification tags for wireless medication tracking and capsule systems for electroceutical therapy. In vivo studies in swine models have demonstrated robust operation within the gastrointestinal tract and compatibility with clinically relevant use cases. This study establishes a foundation for safe, high-performance and bioresorbable power sources in biomedical electronics, enabling retrieval-free, eco-friendly devices that eliminate electronic waste in the gastrointestinal environment. This study presents a bioresorbable magnesium–molybdenum trioxide paper battery that delivers 1.84 V under physiological conditions and degrades after use. Validated in swine models, the platform powers battery-assisted RFID medication adherence tracking and capsule-based gastric electrical stimulation, establishing a foundation for retrieval-free bioelectronic medicine.