Conducting polymers - bridging the bionic interface

Inherently conducting polymers (ICPs) such as polypyrroles, polythiophenes and polyanilines have become commonplace in today's materials research laboratories. However, the most intriguing aspect of these materials - the ability to electronically control a range of physical and chemical properties - remains an area of intense and intriguing research activity. As we understand more of this behaviour, we have turned our attention to a range of areas in which it can be utilised. Perhaps the most challenging of these areas is in bridging the bionic interface, providing a more effective conduit between electronics and biology.