Application of bile acids for biomedical devices and sensors

The objective of this mini-review is to describe the recent advances and applications of bile acids (BAs) for manufacturing biomedical devices and sensors. The biological origin and unique multifunctional properties of BAs are key factors for novel biomedical applications. BAs are used for solubilization of drugs and the development of advanced devices for controlled drug delivery. BAs outperform many commercial dispersants in the dispersion of carbon nanotubes and hydrophobic polymers. They also exhibit unique gel-forming and film-forming properties, which are used for the development of biosensors and functionalization of implant materials. Especially important is the possibility of bile acid gel synthesis for controlled release of drugs and other functional molecules. Electrodeposition of BAs films and composites is emerging as a new area of technological interest. The discovery of BAs mediating the biomineralization phenomena allows the development of biomedical implants with enhanced bioactivity and biocompatibility. Bile acids are used as efficient biocompatible reducing and capping agents for the synthesis of inorganic particles and their functionalization for application in biosensors and antimicrobial coatings. The progress in the modification of biopolymers with BAs and development of BAs derivatives paves the way for the fabrication of advanced implants and sensors.