Nanomaterials-based enzymatic biofuel cells for wearable and implantable bioelectronics

Enzymatic biofuel cells (EBFCs), which generate electricity through electrochemical reactions between metabolites such as glucose or lactate and oxygen, are considered a promising power source for wearable and implantable bioelectronics. However, their widespread application has been limited by the poor stability of enzymes and low electron transfer efficiency at the enzyme-electrode interface.

In a mini-review published in Frontiers in Energy, researchers Jingyao Wang, Jiwei Ma, and Hongfei Cheng from Tongji University detail how advanced nanomaterials are overcoming these critical challenges. The article provides a concise overview of EBFC working principles and systematically summarizes the key roles of nanomaterials.

The authors highlight that nanostructured materials, including carbon nanotubes, graphene, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and metallic nanoparticles, serve essential functions in enzyme immobilization and stabilization, facilitate direct electron transfer, and enhance catalytic reactions. The review also covers recent progress in applying these nanomaterials to develop flexible, wearable EBFCs and explores their emerging applications in self-powered biosensing and molecule release systems.

This work underscores the significant potential of nanotechnology to improve the performance and durability of EBFCs. Continued optimization of nanomaterial structure and their interaction with enzymes is expected to further advance this green energy technology for practical applications in powering low-energy bioelectronic devices.

Original source:

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11708-025-0992-6

https://journal.hep.com.cn/fie/EN/10.1007/s11708-025-0992-6

Shareable link: https://rdcu.be/eSrJR

Keywords:

enzymatic biofuel cells / functional nanomaterials / self-powered bioelectronics / wearable electronics