A team of Swiss scientists have developed a new implant called the e-Dura, which has allowed paralyzed rats to move freely without damage or rejection, according to a Medical Daily report.
The implant uses elastic silicone and cracked gold wiring, which creates a mesh-like structure giving it flexibility comparable to that of the nerve tissue surrounding it. The previously paralyzed rats were implanted with the e-Dura and after two months could walk, run and jump — but with the help of an external stimulator which connected to the device with wires.
However, bringing this technology to humans is still a long way away. The researchers still need to work on getting the device to work independently of an external stimulator, according to the report.
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