Researchers from the University of Cambridge have developed a tiny, flexible electronic device that wraps around the spinal cord. This technology shows promise in treating spinal injuries that can result in profound disability and paralysis. These devices have the capability to record the nerve signals between the brain and the spinal cord, providing a comprehensive view of spinal cord activity in a non-invasive way. Unlike current approaches, the Cambridge devices can record 360-degree information, offering a more complete understanding of spinal cord functions.
Tests conducted on live animal and human cadaver models have demonstrated that the devices can not only record signals but also stimulate limb movement. For individuals with complete spinal cord injuries where communication between the brain and spinal cord is completely absent, the devices could offer a way to bypass the damage and restore movement. This could potentially eliminate the need for high-risk brain surgery, which is currently a common treatment method for spinal injuries.
The new devices represent a significant advancement in the field of spinal injury treatment, as they provide a more comprehensive and less invasive way to monitor and stimulate the spinal cord. Traditional approaches often involve brain and spinal implants, but the Cambridge devices offer a safer alternative by focusing solely on the spinal cord. By intercepting signals traveling on the spinal cord’s nerve fibers, the devices can record activity without penetrating the spinal cord itself, minimizing the risk of damage to the nerves.
In addition to treating spinal injuries, the devices have potential applications in monitoring spinal cord activity during surgery. By better understanding spinal cord functions, researchers hope to develop improved treatments for various conditions such as chronic pain, inflammation, and hypertension. The findings of this research were published in the journal Science Advances, highlighting the significance of this technology in advancing the understanding and treatment of spinal cord injuries.
The researchers behind the project envision a future where spinal injuries can be effectively treated without the need for brain surgery. By focusing on the spinal cord where the connection is disrupted, the researchers believe they can collect all necessary information in a less invasive manner. This approach not only reduces risks to patients but also facilitates a deeper understanding of the spinal cord, an area of human anatomy that remains relatively understudied.
Supported by various organizations and councils, including the Royal College of Surgeons and the EPSRC of UK Research and Innovation, the research team is dedicated to further exploring the potential of their devices. With plans to monitor nerve activity during surgeries, the researchers aim to gain insights that could ultimately lead to better therapies for a range of conditions. The development of these innovative devices represents a significant step towards revolutionizing the treatment of spinal injuries and advancing knowledge of the spinal cord.
