New artificial nerve design improves brain-machine interfaces

Engineers are making progress in creating artificial components that mimic biological systems like human nerves. These artificial nerves could help repair damaged nerves and improve brain-computer interfaces. However, designing these systems to function like natural nerves has been challenging. Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong University in China and Technical University of Munich have developed a new type of artificial nerve. This nerve can handle high frequencies and responds quickly to signals. The research was published in Nature Electronics. The new design optimizes how ions and electrons are transported. The team used a special kind of organic electrochemical transistor to create this nerve. These devices can simulate how nerves operate, including functions like sensing and memory storage. The researchers found that their artificial nerve performs well in both transporting ions and storing information. In tests, the artificial nerve was implanted in mice that had damaged neural functions. The nerve adapted well to the mice's biological tissues and was able to mimic basic reflex actions. This suggests a promising future for applications in technology that repairs nerve circuits and connects brain activity with devices. Although the results are encouraging, further testing is needed to ensure safety and performance. The ultimate goal is to use this technology in prosthetic limbs and tools that help people with paralysis communicate more easily.