ABSTRACT

Biological conductors are being actively explored as alternatives to traditional semiconductors and, more specifically, as substitutes for silicon. Silicon has long been the pioneer material used in transistors due to its abundance and semiconducting properties. However, its limitations, such as inefficient electron transfer and high heat generation, have restricted its use as a source material in advanced semiconductor applications. This led to the development of hybrid nanomaterials combined with biological materials, as well as efforts to explore pure biological materials as replacements for both silicon and nanomaterials. Biological materials are particularly appealing due to their inherent flexibility and highly organized structures, which facilitate smooth electron transfer between adjacent molecules. Additionally, biological materials generate significantly less heat during operation, minimizing heat loss—a critical advantage over silicon. Their ability to self-assemble into organized structures further enhances their suitability for electrical conduction. This property has found key applications in the healthcare industry, where biological materials are used in devices that require high biocompatibility and environmentally friendly materials.
Examples of biological materials under investigation include DNA, melanin, and cytochromes, all of which exhibit favorable electron transfer properties through tunneling, hopping, or redox reactions, effectively overcoming energy barriers and facilitating efficient electrical conductivity. As research progresses, biological conductors may unlock new possibilities in sustainable and biocompatible electronics, offering a promising alternative to traditional semiconductor technologies.