Temperature‐Modulated Threshold Response in a Volatile Memristor: Toward a Biomimetic Polymodal Nociceptive System

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Authors: Chanmin Hwang, Yuseong Jang, Myoungsu Chae, Hee‐Dong Kim
Cited by: 4
References: 45

Abstract

ABSTRACT Research into memristor‐based artificial nociceptors has rapidly progressed in biomimetics. However, most studies have focused on single‐stimulus nociceptive function, leaving polymodality, particularly temperature‐dependent threshold modulation, significantly underexplored. Here, we propose a volatile TiN/TiO x /ZnO/TiO x /ITO (TZT) memristor designed to realize comprehensive polymodal nociceptive functionalities. Crucially, our device exhibits temperature‐dependent conductance, enabling the emulation of pain threshold modulation. Based on this property, we demonstrate the polymodal features in fundamental nociceptor behaviors, including threshold response, no‐adaptation, sensitization, and relaxation. We further replicated these behaviors at the system level by integrating the memristor with a force‐sensitive resistor and a microheater. The resulting polymodal nociceptor system successfully generates appropriate nociceptive signals in response to both mechanical and thermal stimuli. These findings, which move beyond single‐stimulus confinement, highlight the potential of our device as an advanced artificial nociceptor capable of providing a broader spectrum of pain responses in biomimetic platforms.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Advanced Memory and Neural Computing Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials Neuroscience and Neural Engineering

Publication details

Journal / source
Advanced Functional Materials
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
36
Issue
45
Publication date
30 January 2026
Language
EN