Protein bioelectronics: a review of what we do and do not know

TL;DR

This review summarizes current understanding of protein-based bioelectronics, covering electron transfer mechanisms, immobilization techniques, and the impact on device development, highlighting key challenges and future directions.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental concepts, methodologies, and biological considerations in protein bioelectronics, emphasizing the importance of immobilization and biological activity.

Findings

Different immobilization methods affect protein electronic properties

Conductance measurements reveal insights into protein behavior

Biological activity enhances bioelectronic device functionality

Abstract

We review the status of protein-based molecular electronics. First we discuss fundamental concepts of electron transfer and transport in and across proteins and proposed mechanisms for these processes. We then describe the immobilization of proteins to solid-state surfaces in both nanoscale and macroscopic approaches, and highlight how different methodologies can alter protein electronic properties. Because immobilizing proteins while retaining biological activity is crucial to the successful development of bioelectronic devices, we discuss this process at length. We briefly discuss computational predictions and their link to experimental results. We then summarize how the biological activity of immobilized proteins is beneficial for bioelectronics devices, and how conductance measurements can shed light on protein properties. Finally, we consider how the research to date could influence the development of future bioelectronics devices.