A.G. Markov1

1 Institute for Bionic Technologies and Engineering, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University) (Moscow, Russia)

1 markov_a_g@staff.sechenov.ru

Peripheral nerve injuries remain a pressing global health concern, with a substantial number of cases reported annually worldwide. These traumas frequently result in persistent motor and sensory deficits that significantly impair patients' daily functioning. Mechanical damage to nerve trunks leads to muscle atrophy, sensory loss, and chronic pain syndromes. Despite the inherent regenerative capacity of peripheral nerve fibers, the reparative process is often protracted and rarely results in complete functional recovery. Common complications include neuroma formation, target organ atrophy, and aberrant reinnervation. The greatest challenges arise in cases of extensive nerve defects, where spontaneous axonal outgrowth is impossible without surgical intervention.

Aim of the study – to develop a wearable wireless optoelectronic stimulation system based on multilayered organic semiconductors for accelerated peripheral nerve regeneration.

A self-contained wireless system based on alternating organic p- and n-type layers with ultrathin gold interlayers has been developed. Under pulsed red-light irradiation (625 nm), the structures generate photovoltage sufficient to excite neural cells. The devices were integrated into polyimide cuffs and implanted around the sciatic nerve in a rat model of complete transection. Daily stimulation (1 minute) over several weeks resulted in complete normalization of nerve conduction latency. The wearable system with autonomous activation, imposing no restrictions on animal mobility, demonstrated long-term stability and biocompatibility.

The proposed concept establishes a foundation for developing a new generation of minimally invasive neurostimulators. The system minimizes infection risk by eliminating transcutaneous components and opens prospects for applications in neurosurgery and regenerative medicine.

Markov A.G. Development of a wearable wireless stimulation system for peripheral nerve regeneration // Biomedical Radioelectronics. 2026. V. 29. № 6. P. 34−38. DOI: https://doi.org/10.18127/j15604136-202606-07

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