Review of Developments in Bioelectrics as an Application of Pulsed Power Technology

Abstract

The field of bioelectrics lies at the intersection of biomedical engineering, biophysics, pulsed power technology, and bioscience, guided by the underlying theme of using electric pulses of varying waveforms and durations to drive and manipulate desired biological responses and outcomes in cells and tissues. The ever-growing list of applications includes tumor treatment, wound healing, neurostimulation, decontamination and inactivation of microorganisms and pathogens, cardiac ablation for the treatment of arrhythmias, and many more. Here, we present a broad review of the various advances in the field, the state of the hardware that drives the successful implementation of bioelectric systems, and some of the underlying biophysics and modeling efforts that help quantify and unravel the underlying mechanisms for eventual optimization of outcomes and their successful modulation. The primary focus is on the achievements over the past 50 years and the promise for future directions.