A Three-Dimensional Cardiomyocytes Communication Framework for Internet of Bio-Nano Thing

The high mortality associated with cardiovascular diseases has been strongly associated with abnormal electrical signaling in cardiomyocytes. Nevertheless, existing therapeutic approaches lack specificity. Here, we propose a three-dimensional (3D) cardiomyocyte-based communication system, which integrates biocompatible nano-actuators with cardiomyocyte channel through communication theory principles. This system facilitates subthreshold signaling without eliciting action potentials (APs). Nano-Actuators inject subthreshold stimulation currents at the transmitting end to modulate membrane potentials. Additionally, the channel consists of 3D assemblies of cardiomyocytes, while the receiver uses nano-actuators to detect fluctuations in membrane potentials. Simulation findings demonstrate that subthreshold signals can propagate across cells without triggering APs. The transmission distance increases with stimulation intensity; however, the effective communication range, apart from noise, is limited to approximately ten cardiomyocytes.