Conducting polymer-based electrodes for controlling cellular functions

An electrode was coated by double layer of electrodeposited polypyrroles (PPy). The inner thicker PPy was doped with p-toluene sulfonate to ensure larger electrical capacity that is required for less-invasive stimulation of neural cells. The outer thinner PPy was doped with polyacrylate to present carboxyl group on the surface. Nerve Growth Factor was immobilized by utilizing the carboxyl groups, and successfully induced the differentiation of neuronal PC12 cells and their neurite growth. The present layered structure is one of effective approach to modify the high capacity PPy-based stimulation electrode with biomolecules for controlling cellular functions.