Multifunctional microfluidic bioelectronic suture for accelerated healing and wound monitoring

Abstract

Sutures, owing to their mechanical stability and proximity to wound edges, are the most commonly used wound healing tools. However, conventional sutures are largely passive and functionally limited. Emerging fiber technologies can impart functionality to suture structures, and sutures capable of sensing or modulation have been developed. Nevertheless, a monolithic suture that integrates sensing, electrical stimulation, and controlled drug delivery within a single architecture has not been reported thus far. Herein, we present a novel multifunctional microfluidic bioelectronic suture (MMBS) comprising an oxidized starch–gentamicin conjugate core and an Ag–Au nanowire composite shell functionalized with Pt micro- and IrO₂ nanoparticle shell for accelerated healing and wound monitoring. High elasticity (∼3.8 MPa) and suture-like thickness (∼300 μm) simplify handling, similar to conventional sutures, and mechanical compliance preserves the structure and performance of the MMBS under external deformations. The nanocomposite shell, owing to its high conductivity and low impedance, enables physiological sensing of pH and impedance and provides electrical stimulation at the wound site. Moreover, the polymer–drug composite core serves as a microfluidic-like channel itself, facilitating localized drug delivery. Collectively, the MMBS could accelerate wound healing through accurate monitoring-guided electrical stimulation and multimodal treatment, as demonstrated using an in vivo mouse model. This innovative suture can be considered a practical solution for comprehensive wound care.