Ray of light: Photonic sensors to improve connections between nerves and prosthetic limb

With the latest developments by the ingenious researchers, having the prosthetic limb is no more such a big issue. The researchers are now developing the photonic sensors that could improve connections between nerves and prosthetic limbs. Marc Christensen of Southern Methodist University, Texas along with his colleagues has developed the bionic arm that plugs directly into the nervous system to make the person feel the pressure and heat. The sensors that have been developed will pick up nerve signals using light. Presently, the sensors are in the prototype stage and of massive size but smaller versions.

bionic arm

The researchers plan to demonstrate a working prototype on animals like cat/dog within the next two years. In the mean time, efforts will be made to shrink these from hundreds of micrometers to 50 micrometers. The project has got $5.6 million funding from the US military's Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. Christensen has hopes to make these sensors and optical fiber work well in acting as "jumper cord" to restore movement and sensation to patients with spinal cord damage.

Via: Newscientist