Scientists develop a biodegradable implant to accelerate nerve regeneration

Image courtesy of Northwestern University via AFP Relaxnews

Researchers at Northwestern University and the Washington University School of Medicine have developed a dime-sized implant and as thin as a sheet of paper using electrical impulses to stimulate the regeneration of nerves .

This bioelectric medical device was tested on rats whose legs had damaged nerves. After implant placement, electrical impulses were administered to the damaged nerves. In a study published in the journal "Nature Medicine", researchers explain that the implant is powered and controlled wirelessly via an external transmitter located outside the body.

The device was tested on several rats, which received one hour of electrical stimulation for one, three or six days. Others have not received any electrical stimulation. The researchers followed their recovery over a period of 10 weeks. As a result, they found that electrical stimulation accelerated the process of nerve regeneration. In addition, nerve signaling and muscle strength were recovered more quickly and effectively, and the number of days of rat treatment was high.

Note that the implant is also biodegradable and works about two weeks before it can be absorbed by the body. Scientists have found no adverse effects related to the device or its reabsorption.

The researchers' findings also point to other potential uses, such as pacemakers. Although these new generation devices have not yet been tested in humans, scientists hope that this type of "bioelectric drug" could supplement or even replace some medical treatments or permanent implants someday. JB

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