A magneto-responsive nanomesh biosensor for simultaneous mechanical stimulation and electrochemical detection

Mechanical cues are critical regulators of cell fate and behavior through the orchestrated and continual conversion of physical forces into biochemical responses. However, due to the poor compatibility between mechanical and biochemical techniques, existing methods are often limited in characterizing the occurring biochemical signals during mechanical stimulation. Herein, this work presents a magneto-responsive nanomesh (MRnM) biosensor capable of mechanically stimulating cells in vitro and tissues in vivo and simultaneously detecting the triggered biomolecules. Under external magnetic fields, the sensor exhibits excellent magnetic responsiveness with remote, controllable and tailored deformation, while maintaining prominent and stable electrochemical sensing performance. As a proof of concept, this MRnM sensor achieves the magnetically-actuated deformation of osteoblasts and real-time monitoring of the ensuing nitric oxide release, revealing the role of Piezo1 channels in nitric oxide synthase signaling pathways. Furthermore, we demonstrate the capability of MRnM sensor for in vivo applications. Ultimately, the developed MRnM biosensor holds great potential for mechanical stimulation and real-time monitoring of various biological systems, ranging from living cells to soft tissues and in vivo organs.