Biomedical Implants with Charge‐Transfer Monitoring and Regulating Abilities

Transmembrane charge (ion/electron) transfer is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and is involved in many biological processes, from protein synthesis to embryonic development in organisms. Designing implant devices that can detect or regulate cellular transmembrane charge transfer is expected to sense and modulate the behaviors of host cells and tissues. Thus, charge transfer can be regarded as a bridge connecting living systems and human‐made implantable devices. This review describes the mode and mechanism of charge transfer between organisms and nonliving materials, and summarizes the strategies to endow implants with charge‐transfer regulating or monitoring abilities. Furthermore, three major charge‐transfer controlling systems, including wired, self‐activated, and stimuli‐responsive biomedical implants, as well as the design principles and pivotal materials are systematically elaborated. The clinical challenges and the prospects for future development of these implant devices are also discussed. Transmembrane transfer of ion and electron (namely, charge transfer) is crucial for cells to interact with the external environment. Implants with charge‐transfer‐controlling abilities can realize real‐time detection and modulation of cell/tissue behavior. This review discusses the mechanism of charge transfer between organisms and implants, and summarizes the recent progresses and perspective of implants with charge‐transfer monitoring or regulating abilities.