Scientists have developed a breakthrough method to grow conductive polymers directly inside living brain tissue. The technique involves injecting monomers that are then assembled into n-doped poly(benzodifurandione) (n-PBDF) using the organism's own natural catalysts.
The research team utilized abundant hemoproteins already present in the body as biological catalysts to drive the polymerization process. This approach eliminates the need for external chemical catalysts or surgical implantation of pre-formed materials, potentially reducing tissue damage and inflammatory responses.