Biocompatibility and in vivo sensors

Biocompatibility and in vivo sensors SINTEF Department of Microsystems and Nanotechnology has long experience in design of small-sized, lightweight, and less power-consuming Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS). MEMS are especially attractive as sensors for continuous monitoring of physiological parameters in the human body. Such in vivo sensors are now being used during surgery or for a short period after surgery. For permanent or long-term implantation in the human body, however, biocompatibility, i.e. the body’s reaction to the implanted sensor as well as the sensor’s reaction to the body, is one major obstacle for the success. Corrosion as well as the accumulation of proteins, cells and other biological material on the sensor surface may alter the sensor characteristics and at worst cause the sensor to fail. To succeed with in vivo sensors, the biological response to the implanted sensor and how this response affects the sensor characteristics and stability must be addressed. Can we control or predict the changes on sensor behavior caused by the biological response? Can we reduce unwanted accumulation of proteins/cells by coating the sensor surface by protective films? How will these films affect the sensor sensitivity? Key challenges and some possibilities within designing in vivo sensors for the future will be presented.