Simiao Niu, an assistant professor of biomedical engineering at Rutgers-New Brunswick, has developed a groundbreaking “living bioelectronic” device to treat psoriasis, a chronic skin condition characterized by red, inflamed patches.
Inspired by his work on Apple watches, Niu’s prototype combines advanced electronics, living cells, and hydrogel in a small patch. This patch monitors and treats skin inflammation by using bacteria that reduce inflammation and sensors that track healing progress. The data is sent wirelessly to a computer or phone, allowing patients to monitor their condition. After successful tests in mice, the device will undergo clinical trials for human use, aiming for FDA approval and commercialization.