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Numerous living organisms possess biophotonic nanostructures that provide colouration and other diverse functions for survival. While such structures have been actively studied and replicated in the laboratory, it remains unclear whether they can be used for biomedical applications. Here, we show a transparent photonic nanostructure inspired by the longtail glasswing butterfly (Chorinea faunus) and demonstrate its use in intraocular pressure (IOP) sensors in vivo. We exploit the phase separation between two immiscible polymers (poly(methyl methacrylate) and polystyrene) to form nanostructured features on top of a Si3N4substrate. The membrane thus formed shows good angle-independent white-light transmission, strong hydrophilicity and anti-biofouling properties, which prevent adhesion of proteins, bacteria and eukaryotic cells. We then developed a microscale implantable IOP sensor using our photonic membrane as an optomechanical sensing element. Finally, we performed in vivo testing on New Zealand white rabbits, which showed that our device reduces the mean IOP measurement variation compared with conventional rebound tonometry without signs of inflammation. A nanostructured membrane inspired by transparent butterfly wings is used for intraocular pressure sensing in vivo.

Multifunctional black‐silicon (b‐Si)integrated on the surface of an implantable intraocular pressure sensor significantly improves sensor performance and reliability in six‐month in vivo studies. The antireflective properties of b‐Si triples the signal‐to‐noise ratio and increases the optical readout distance to a clinically viable 12 cm. Tissue growth and inflammation response on the sensor is suppressed demonstrating desirable anti‐biofouling properties.

In article number 1601356, Hyuck Choo and co‐workers report the first demonstrated use of high‐aspect‐ratio black‐silicon (b‐Si) as a multifunctional layer on an optically probed implantable intraocular pressure (IOP) sensor, a crucial device for glaucoma management and drug delivery. The anti‐reflective and anti‐biofouling properties of b‐Si significantly improved sensor readout performance and long‐term reliability in in vivo studies, bring this IOP‐sensing approach a step closer to practical use in medicine.