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The biosynthesis factory is constructed on decellularized heart valves (DHVs) through a grafting from DNA hydrogel, utilizing tailored rolling circle amplification (RCA) on DHVs. Anti-coagulation NU172 aptamers are incorporated into the hydrogel to recruit heme from the bloodstream and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) is encapsulated to convert heme into biliverdin, achieving long-term immune regulation and valve regeneration.

Abstract

The development of heart valve prostheses with regenerative capabilities offers significant potential to overcome the limitations of existing commercial artificial valves in clinical practice. Immune modulation plays a crucial role in heart valve regeneration by reversing the coagulation and inflammatory microenvironment, thereby facilitating recellularization. In this study, a biosynthesis factory is constructed on decellularized heart valves (DHVs) to continuously convert the abundant heme in the blood into immunomodulators, supporting long-term immune modulation and tissue regeneration. This biosynthesis factory is achieved through a grafting from DNA hydrogel, utilizing tailored rolling circle amplification (RCA) on DHVs. Anti-coagulation NU172 aptamers are incorporated into the DNA hydrogel to recruit heme from the bloodstream, while heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) is encapsulated to simultaneously convert heme into biliverdin. This system ensures the sustained production of biliverdin, facilitating anti-inflammatory immune modulation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging, thus creating a regenerative immune microenvironment. Additionally, the DNA coating is further crosslinked with zwitterionic polymers, which protect the functional DNA layer and provide anti-calcification and anti-adhesion properties. This comprehensive design promotes full endothelial cell coverage and significant extracellular matrix remodeling within one-month post-implantation.

This review highlights the potential of 2D-2D heterostructures (HRs) in advancing monovalent ion-based energy storage. It examines their role in tailoring charge interactions mechanisms, optimizing interfacial properties, and overcoming the limitations of individual layered materials. Covering synthesis methods, structural designs, and electrochemical advances, the review offers insights into design strategies and challenges, positioning 2D HRs as promising anode materials.

Abstract

Nanoscale manipulation of electronic and ionic charge interactions within electrode materials is the cornerstone for advancing electrochemical energy storage. Compared to bulk materials, 2D confined anodes provide lamellar channels to mobile ions for electrochemical interactions. However, individual 2D layers are often inefficient in delivering desired properties for stable and rapid kinetics in battery operations. To address this, 2D-2D heterostructures (2D HRs) that integrate the properties of two or more layers via van der Waals or covalent bonds can give optimized interfacial features. These structures modulate electronic properties, such as band positions, activation energies, diffusion barriers, and binding energies for intercalating ions, thereby regulating the electrochemical characteristics of batteries to meet practical challenges. In this context, this review includes the latest experimental and theoretical investigations to explore the multifunctional roles of 2D HRs in monovalent ion (Li+, Na+, and K+) batteries (MIBs). First, it elucidates the fundamentals concerning the impacts of HRs in charge storage mechanisms and outlines pathways for synthesizing their novel designs. Then, it summarizes the different configurations of 2D HRs utilized in designing MIBs. Finally, it underscores the current challenges and future perspectives for implementing 2D HRs as advanced anode materials in batteries.

Nature Energy, Published online: 13 June 2025; doi:10.1038/s41560-025-01775-z

Although the export of green hydrogen from Africa could support decarbonization in Europe, results from a geospatial model suggest that high investment risks make such exports economically unviable in most areas. Guaranteed offtake agreements from Europe can reduce investment risks to achieve cost competitiveness in some locations.

Nature Energy, Published online: 13 June 2025; doi:10.1038/s41560-025-01786-w

Perovskite photovoltaics have achieved high power conversion efficiencies, yet their durability remains to be proven. This Perspective presents a number of approaches with a view to addressing durability challenges.

ENDO lipid nanoparticles containing cholecalciferol as a fifth component demonstrate mRNA delivery to the pancreas with 99% selectivity, including beta cells. This platform shows minimal toxicity and sustained protein expression for up to 3 days in a dose-dependent manner, offering a novel approach to pancreas-specific mRNA delivery and gene therapy that is suitable for repeat administration with clinical relevance.

Abstract

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) hold transformative potential for nucleic acid delivery, with applications ranging from clinical use, particularly in COVID-19 vaccines, to gene therapy and cancer immunotherapy. However, a major limitation lies in their preferential accumulation in the liver following intravenous administration, making most targets hard-to-reach. In this study, a novel platform called endogenous targeting lipid nanoparticles (ENDO), containing cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) as a fifth component is reported, that selectively delivers mRNA to the pancreas – a target previously inaccessible through intravenous administration. The top formulation, C-CholF3, demonstrates an unprecedented 99% pancreas selectivity with robust and sustained protein expression for up to 3 days in a dose-dependent manner with minimal toxicity that makes it suitable for repeat administration. This organ-specific delivery is proposed to be mediated by an endogenous targeting mechanism involving the Vitamin D receptor (VDR). C-CholF3 also enables selective pancreatic delivery of plasmid DNA and circular mRNA, underscoring its versatility and therapeutic potential. Furthermore, C-CholF3 exhibits pancreas-specific gene editing in the Ai14 transgenic mouse model, showing high expression of tdTomato in the β cells. These findings highlight its potential for translational applications in protein replacement and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing for currently incurable pancreatic diseases, including pancreatic cancer and diabetes.

The misreporting of piezoresistive gauge factor for bioelectronic devices impacts the ability of researchers to assess the status of the field. Like Goldilocks, researchers need the ability to take similar bowls of porridge, or devices, and perform “taste” tests. A systematic analysis of published data outlines reporting and performance standards that must be adhered to by editors and researchers alike.

Abstract

In the fable Goldilocks and The Three Bears, Goldilocks discerns between seemingly similar bowls of porridge using temperature. In the field of wearable bioelectronics, researchers do not have the same luxury of simple comparative analysis. Devices based on composite materials applying electrically conductive nanomaterial and polymer networks present a technology path towards an Internet of Things driven healthcare system. However, research progress has been obstructed by a lack of consistency with regards to the industry standard performance metric, the gauge factor (G). Paradoxically, studies cannot be compared, as no one study measures G the same. However, extrapolating the correct value for G, its intrinsic relationship between the signal linearity figure of merit outlines fieldwide performance limitations for devices, new metrics and materials selection criteria.

During polarization switching in AlScN, domain-wall transverse motion invariably precedes longitudinal motion due to a 98% reduction in energy barriers. By controlling nucleation polarity to promote transverse motion, this work enables low-field-driven domain wall motion, reducing Ec by 25% while maintaining high Pr and suppressing wake-up behavior across 6-inch wafers to advance energy-efficient wurtzite ferroelectric devices for CMOS integration.

Abstract

Wurtzite-type nitride ferroelectrics emerge as a breakthrough platform for silicon-compatible nonvolatile memory technology. However, the inherent polarization reversal mechanisms involving diatomic displacements introduce complex domain dynamics and elevate energy barriers, manifesting as excessive coercive fields (E c) and pronounced wake-up effects that hinder reliable device operation. Here, these challenges are resolved by enabling the low-field-driven domain wall motion in representative wurtzite ferroelectrics (Al0.75Sc0.25N). In situ transmission electron microscopy measurements reveal that polarization switching proceeds via preferential domain-wall transverse propagation perpendicular to the [0001] axis, preceding longitudinal propagation along the [0001] axis. First-principles simulations quantify a striking 98% reduction in energy barrier for transverse migration (0.00188 eV f.u−1). Compared to longitudinal motion (0.092 eV f.u−1). This switching kinetic fundamentally challenges the conventional Kolmogorov-Avrami-Ishibashi model. By controlling nucleation polarity to promote the transverse motion of the domain wall, E c is reduced by 25%, with a high remanent polarization maintained and wake-up effects eliminated across 6-inch films. The methodology establishes a universal design principle for manipulating polarization switching in wurtzite ferroelectrics, paving the way for integrated low-energy, high-stability, uniformly-performing ferroelectric devices in large-scale complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) architectures.

2D antimony (Sb)-based materials have drawn tremendous attention in the field of next-generation integrated circuits due to their outstanding properties, high stability, and earth abundance. Despite their potential, a comprehensive review summarizing advancements in 2D Sb-based materials remains absent. This review addresses this critical gap by presenting an in-depth analysis of recent progress in 2D Sb-based materials. Our review aims to inspire further research into the practical applications and address the challenges that lie ahead for future electronics and optoelectronics.

Abstract

Two-dimensional (2D) materials, with their atomic-layer thickness and exceptional properties, have garnered significant attention for next-generation integrated circuits. Among these, 2D antimony (Sb)-based materials distinguish themselves through outstanding physical properties, natural abundance, and remarkable stability. Despite their potential, a comprehensive review summarizing advancements in 2D Sb-based materials remains absent. This review addresses this critical gap by presenting an in-depth analysis of recent progress in 2D Sb-based materials, specifically, antimonene, antimony chalcogenides (Sb2X3, X = S, Se, Te), antimony oxides (α-, β-, and γ-Sb2O3, and SbO1.93), antimonides (e.g., NdSb2), and complex polycompounds such as quaternary CdSb2Se3Br2, focusing on their crystal structures, synthesis techniques, applications, and future prospects. By providing valuable insights into the potential of 2D Sb-based materials, our review aims to inspire further research into their practical applications and address the challenges that lie ahead for future electronics and optoelectronics.

Rb-Cs alloyed quasi-2D perovskites with low-threshold ASEs and exceptional spectral stability are synthesized. Tuning Rb-Cs ratio enables broad ASE tunability across blue and green regions. Alloying optimizes the inter-well energy transfer and suppresses Auger recombination, yielding a record-low ASE threshold, ≈50% lower than mixed-halide perovskites. Their micro-ring laser arrays exhibit high Q-factors and low thresholds, showcasing superior lasing performance.

Abstract

Blue-green lasers are essential for next-generation optoelectronics. While GaN-InGaN lasers offer excellent performance, their complex fabrication and challenges in precise bandgap tuning remain significant limitations. Hybrid lead halide perovskites present a promising alternative, with tunable bandgaps and cost-effective solution processing. However, halide migration in these materials causes spectral instability and luminescence shifts under operational conditions. Here, a novel class of Rb-Cs alloyed quasi-2D perovskites is introduced that achieve both low amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) thresholds and exceptional spectral stability. By precisely tuning the Rb-Cs ratio, it realizes ASE across the blue-green spectrum (481–532 nm). Rb-Cs alloying critically modulates the quantum well distribution, optimizes the energy landscape, and suppresses Auger recombination, resulting in a record-low ASE threshold of 1.94 µJ·cm−2—over 50% lower than that of mixed-halide perovskites. These materials exhibit remarkable spectral robustness, with ASE spectra remaining stable even after prolonged thermal annealing, thereby overcoming halide migration-induced degradation. Furthermore, micro-ring laser arrays fabricated from these Rb-Cs alloyed perovskites demonstrate superior lasing characteristics, including high-quality whispering-gallery-mode resonances and low lasing thresholds, underscoring their potential for advanced laser technologies.

A series of CoN4-X configurations are screened using density functional theory (DFT) simulations through second coordination sphere anion modulation (X = B, O, F, P, S, Cl). The magnetic moment is revealed as a critical descriptor for establishing dual volcano-type correlations with both chloride ion (Cl−) adsorption energy and Gibbs free energy of reaction-related intermediates.

Abstract

Developing chloride ion-resistant trifunctional catalysts is imperative and of great significance for application in renewable energy-driven seawater splitting systems (S-WSS). However, there is currently a lack of unified descriptors for the rational design of catalysts that possess both high corrosion resistance and excellent catalytic activity. Herein, the magnetic moment is proposed as the descriptor through second-coordination-shell anion engineering of CoN₄ moieties (named as CoN4-X, X = B/O/F/P/S/Cl). Systematic density functional theory calculations reveal that precisely modulating the spin states of CoN₄ centers via X-anion coordination establishes dual volcano-type relationships between magnetic moments and the adsorption energetics of Cl⁻ ions or key reaction intermediates for oxygen reduction, oxygen evolution, and hydrogen evolution reactions (ORR/OER/HER). Experimental validation demonstrates the optimized CoN₄-B configuration-based catalyst (Co SAs-N/B-HCS) achieves minimized Cl⁻ adsorption energy while delivering exceptional trifunctional ORR/OER/HER activity, as well as excellent stability in chloride ion-rich seawater-based environments (over 1000 h for seawater-based Zn-air batteries, over 800 h for seawater splitting). Notably, the Co SAs-N/B-HCS enables temperature-adaptive hydrogen production rates of 853 µmol h⁻¹ (60 °C), 616 µmol h⁻¹ (25 °C), and 397 µmol h⁻¹ (−30 °C). This work establishes a spin state engineering paradigm that simultaneously addresses catalyst corrosion and trifunctional synergy in marine energy systems.

Reconfigurable physical unclonable function (PUF) integrating optical and electrical responses in organic field-effect transistor is developed by using unique optical fingerprint textures and random molecular alignment of the semiconductive smectic liquid crystal. This approach enhances security by enabling hierarchical authentication, providing robust solutions for anticounterfeiting and cryptographic applications.

Abstract

Physical unclonable functions (PUFs)—a hardware-based security device using randomness—have evolved from basic integrated circuit designs to advanced systems using diverse materials and mechanisms. However, most PUFs are limited by single-factor challenges and fixed key generation, making them vulnerable to brute-force attacks. A reconfigurable and multidimensional liquid crystal (LC)-based PUF is presented integrated into an organic field-effect transistor (OFET) to address limitations. This system combines optical and electrical PUFs through unique optical fingerprint textures and random molecular alignment of the semiconductive smectic LC material. The PUF can be reconfigured by a simple heating and cooling process, overcoming the limitations of fixed-structure PUFs. Furthermore, this approach enhances security by enabling hierarchical authentication due to the multi-response factors, providing robust solutions for anticounterfeiting and cryptographic applications.

Indium doping in the inner layer of MoS₂ is introduced to significantly reduce the high surface energy associated with sulfur vacancies, achieving highly active and stable catalysts for enhancing sulfur redox kinetics in high-performance Li–S batteries. The novel In-Vs catalytic sites effectively lower reaction-free energies and diffusion energy barriers, accelerate redox kinetics, ensure stable catalytic performance, and mitigate the shuttling effect.

Abstract

Defect engineering in MoS2 via sulfur vacancies (Vs-MoS2) has shown potential in enhancing lithium–sulfur battery (LSB) performance by mitigating the polysulfide shuttle effect. However, the high surface energy of Vs-MoS2 impedes long-term catalyst stability. Herein, indium (In) doping is introduced into the inner layer of Vs-MoS2 lattice (In-Vs-MoS2), which effectively stabilizes the catalyst by reducing surface energy and enhancing sulfur redox kinetics. Theoretical calculations confirm that In doping, in conjunction with surface vacancies, optimizes charge distribution and generates unpaired electrons near the Fermi level, thus improving polysulfide adsorption and lowering Li2S formation barriers. LSBs with In-Vs-MoS2 separators deliver stable cycling at 0.5 C with a favorable capacity of 1042 mAh g−1 retained after 100 cycles. Moreover, even at high current density (5 C) and high S loading (8.7 mg cm−2) scenario, stable cycling is realized, demonstrating the strategy's effectiveness in advancing LSB electrocatalysis. This work offers a straightforward strategy for practical LSBs and deepens the understanding of vacancy-modulated electrocatalysts for sulfur redox.

A full high vacuum preparation and characterization chain unveils that hydroxyl-induced trap states affect the charge transport in p- and n-channel OFETs similarly. The variable-temperature TLM analysis suggests that the activation energy of charge transport plays a more significant role than the density of trap states. Furthermore, the injection barrier is significantly lower in devices with a hydroxyl-free dielectric.

Abstract

Trap states at the gate dielectric-organic semiconductor (OSC) interface are one of the main sources of extrinsic traps in organic field-effect transistors (OFETs). However, they are often overlooked and their effects on the charge transport are attributed to the exposure of devices to ambient air. Here a first variable-temperature transfer length method characterization of both p- and n-channel OFETs under full high vacuum conditions is reported. By comparing a hydroxylated aluminum oxide (Al2O3) gate dielectric with a hydroxyl-free, tetradecylphosphonic acid-functionalized Al2O3 dielectric, it is shown that hydroxyl-induced trap states reduce the charge carrier mobility in OFETs regardless of the channel type. This observation challenges the common belief that the hydroxyl-induced traps are affecting primarily the n-channel transport. The variable-temperature analysis yields a high activation energy of charge transport as the main effect of a hydroxylated gate dielectric. Moreover, the injection barrier at the interface between the source-drain electrodes and the OSC layer is significantly lower for devices with a hydroxyl-free dielectric and correlates with the activation energy of charge transport. This work identifies previously hidden limitations of charge transport in OFETs, opening opportunities for further improvements in device performance and potential device applications.

Polymer regulation shapes a weakly solvating polymer-stabilized anion-rich Na+ solvation structure and robust dual-layered solid electrolyte interphase, enabling long-life and safe quasi-solid-state anode-free sodium battery with high energy.

Abstract

Anode-free sodium metal batteries (AFSMBs) offer a promising solution to enhance the inherently low energy of sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) while circumventing the challenges in processing highly reactive Na metal anodes. However, their practical viability is severely hindered by short lifespan, driven by accelerated irreversible Na loss in zero-Na-excess cell configurations, alongside safety concerns of liquid electrolyte leakage. Here, a design of long-life quasi-solid-state AFSMBs is demonstrated by leveraging polymer regulation of Na+ solvation behavior and anode interphase chemistry to reduce Na loss while enhancing cell safety. The polyoxymethylene with reduced local steric hindrance and weak Na+ chelation shapes a weakly solvating polymer-stabilized anion-rich Na+ solvation structure. It facilitates Na+ transport and formation of robust inorganic–organic dual-layered solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), enabling smooth Na metal deposition in quasi-solid-state electrolytes. This chemistry yields quasi-solid-state AFSMBs with a long lifespan of 500 cycles and 79% capacity retention at a high rate of 1 C. The 1.2 Ah pouch cells retain 81% capacity over 200 cycles, delivering a volumetric energy of 340 Wh L⁻1, surpassing LiFePO4||graphite lithium-ion batteries, while achieving a comparable gravimetric energy of 190 Wh kg⁻1. Such cells also exhibit high reliability against nail penetration in the open air at a fully charged state.

A major advancement in gel technology is presented with the introduction of “Ionophobic Coordination Reinforcement.”(ICR). This strategy combines ionic liquid-phobic microphase separation with lithium-ion coordination crosslinking, enabling a novel thermoplastic gel network. ICR achieves remarkable mechanical performance, efficient self-healing at room-temperature, and exceptional melt-processability, overcoming key challenges in gel materials.

Abstract

As the key materials for next-generation wearable and flexible electronics, ionogels are expected to combine excellent mechanical performance, efficient room-temperature self-healing, and facile processability. Current ionogels typically face a significant trade-off between mechanical strength and self-healing efficiency, limiting their practical applications. Here, “Ionophobic Coordination Reinforcement” (ICR) is introduced, a strategy that integrates ionic liquid-phobic microphase separation with lithium-ion coordination crosslinking. The ICR design yields a dual glass transition temperature (Tg ): −60.27 °C for maintaining soft phase mobility and 55.33 °C for reinforcing hard phase strength. This architecture achieves simultaneous high mechanical performance (6.4-fold increase in tensile strength, 4-fold increase in toughness, and 35.6-fold increase in Young's modulus) and efficient self-healing at ambient conditions. Furthermore, this dynamic supramolecular architecture also provides exceptional melt-processability, facilitating advanced fabrication techniques such as melt spinning. Taking advantage of the high specific surface area of ionogel fibers, the sensor exhibits enhanced humidity sensitivity and rapid response to respiratory moisture changes compared to film counterparts. Integrated into a wireless platform, it enables real-time, non-invasive respiratory monitoring, while intrinsic self-healing ensures long-term stability. ICR effectively resolves the trade-off between strength and self-healing, offering a new paradigm for high-performance wearable electronics, soft robotics, and adaptive sensors.

Energy Environ. Sci., 2025, Accepted Manuscript
DOI: 10.1039/D5EE02194D, Paper Open Access &nbsp This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported Licence.Raul A. Marquez, Jay T. Bender, Ashton M Aleman, Emma Kalokowski, Thuy Vy Le, Chloe L. Williamson, Morten Linding Frederiksen, Kenta Kawashima, Chikaodili Emmanuel Chukwuneke, Andrei Dolocan, Delia Milliron, Joaquin Resasco, Thomas Jaramillo, Charles Mullins
Energy conversion technologies that are key to decarbonization efforts face significant durability challenges due to variable operation. Understanding the impact of variable operation on catalytic stability and identifying the key...
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Advanced Materials, Volume 37, Issue 23, June 12, 2025.

Materials Research at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) was established in 1991 as the first research-focused university in Hong Kong to advance learning and knowledge, particularly in science, technology, engineering, management, and business studies, and at the postgraduate level. HKUST has developed significantly in the past 35 years, ranking itself as one of the best among young universities.

Colloidal Quantum Dots

Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) are exceptional photocatalysts due to their unique photophysical properties, tunable surface chemistry, and structural diversity. These properties enable novel photocatalytic organic transformations, overcoming limitations of traditional catalysts. This review highlights recent QD-driven advancements and discusses future research directions in photocatalysis. More details can be found in article number 2409096 by Haipeng Lu and co-workers.

Stretchable Interconnects for Wearable Bioelectronics

As wearable telemedicine advances, stretchable interconnects becomes vital in skin-compatible devices for reliable health signals. Article number 2408456 by Hnin Yin Yin Nyein and co-workers explores various materials and fabrication methods for stretchable interconnects, highlighting their electrical and mechanical traits along with their geometric versatility. The review also showcases successful rigid-soft interfaces, while addressing unresolved challenges and outlining future directions for practical wearable applications.