Dielectric Mechanisms and Ionic Transport in Biological Systems: Insights and Applications

The study of dielectric properties of biological materials, ranging from exosomes and cells to organoids and tissues, is a burgeoning field in biophysics and bioengineering. The primary challenge in this area is to investigate biological systems without compromising their vitality, necessitating the use of label-free, non-invasive techniques. One of the most effective methods for this purpose is the evaluation of dielectric properties, which are influenced by the material's electronic polarization state. This state can change due to various dielectric mechanisms such as atomic polarization, dipole relaxation, and ionic relaxation. Recent studies have shown that the transport of ions and other materials within living cells, which leads to structural and size changes, significantly alters their dielectric state. Despite the progress, there remains a need for more comprehensive and up-to-date literature to address existing gaps and ongoing debates in the field.

This Research Topic aims to explore the dielectric properties of biological systems at various hierarchical levels to gain insights into fundamental biological functions such as signal and energy transduction. The main objectives include answering specific questions about ionic and material transport processes that maintain homeostasis in living matter. Hypotheses to be tested may involve the relationship between dielectric properties and cellular activities like growth and maturation. By addressing these questions, the research seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of the electric phenomena that play a crucial role in biological systems.

To gather further insights into the dielectric properties of biological materials, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Application of Electric Impedance Spectroscopy in biological studies and biological samples
- Use of Dielectrophoresis (DEP) for suspended small particles such as cells and extracellular vesicles
- Monitoring the electric properties of biological tissues in a label-free manner
- Development and application of lab-on-a-chip devices for investigating small amounts of biological samples
- Rapid, label-free detection of dielectric properties of tissues, organoids, or single cells

Original research papers, reviews, and concept articles on these topics are all welcome.

Keywords: impedance spectroscopy, dielectrophoresis, biological materials, exosomes, cells, organoids, tissues, label-free, noninvasive, electric impedance spectroscopy

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.