Figure 9.

Potential medical applications of biomaterial waveguides. (a) Continuous monitoring of biological analytes using an implanted optical fiber. (b) Monitoring of the viability and function of a transplanted kidney using a mesh-type optical waveguide. (c) Photodynamic therapy of skin tumors using an optical microneedle array. (d) Minimally-invasive photochemical crosslinking of the sclera using a flexible waveguide. (e) Long-term optogenetic treatment of brain disorders using implanted optical waveguides. (f) On-demand synthesis of therapeutic substances from optogenetic cells encapsulated in a light-guiding hydrogel implant. (g) Photomodulation of wound healing using a wearable photonic bandage.