MIET scientists have developed spinal cord implants that can significantly improve the treatment of chronic pain and reduce the risk of scarring during nerve tissue regeneration. The research results were published in the journal Gels. These implants are based on neurointerfaces — systems that provide information exchange between the brain and electronic devices.
With the help of such implants, it is possible to influence the nervous system with electrical signals, which allows blocking pain signals without the side effects that usually occur with medication. However, most existing neurointerfaces provoke scar formation, which impairs signal conduction and can lead to neuron death. The new biocomposite developed by MIET has improved biocompatibility, which minimizes the possibility of scar tissue formation, improving electrical signal conduction and promoting better nerve tissue regeneration.
The implants are designed to be implanted into the spinal cord, where they stimulate nerve tissue with electrical impulses, which is important for blocking pain. Experimental studies have shown that after 72 hours on the surface of the new material, the number of nerve cells increased by 10% compared to the control group. Scientists are also working on creating composite materials based on carbon nanotubes with metal inclusions, which can more effectively manage charge redistribution and be used to analyze pain sensations using artificial intelligence.
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