Abstract
The nano-bio interface generated by integrating semiconductor nanomaterials with living cells could serve as a platform for facilitating energy and signal transfer between non-living materials and living systems for applications in energy and the life sciences. This review presents recent advances in one-dimensional nanomaterial-biosystem interfaces and applications from chemical conversion and energy production to electrophysiology. First, we introduce representative types of nanowire-biosystem interfaces and their design principles. Second, we present nanomaterial-bacteria hybrids for solar-to-chemical CO2 reduction. Third, we introduce nano-bio hybrid electrodes for energy production, especially for biofuel cells. Fourth, we present semiconductor nanowire-embedded nanoelectronics interfaced with living cells and tissue for electrophysiological signal recordings. Last, we provide a brief summary of the progress on energy and signal transfer at the nano-bio interface, as well as our perspectives on the challenges and future directions in this interesting field.