Title: Rice University Receives $6.25 Million Grant to Optimize Nanoelectronic Threads for Spinal Cord Research
Rice University has been awarded a substantial $6.25 million grant by the National Institutes of Health to optimize nanoelectronic threads (NETs) for use in spinal research. This four-year grant represents a landmark opportunity for engineers at Rice University to unravel the mysteries of spinal cord function.
NET probes, which are already utilized for collecting data from neurons in the brain, show promise for aiding neuroscientists in understanding the complexities of spinal cord function. By leveraging these probes, researchers hope to provide new hope for those suffering from spinal cord injuries and other medical conditions associated with the spine.
While the neurons in the spinal cord are responsible for translating brain intentions into specific muscle movements, the mechanisms behind this process remain relatively unknown. Initial tests have demonstrated that NET probes can effectively record electrical information from spinal cord neurons in mice. However, further adjustments are necessary to meet the unique demands of the spinal cord structure.
To achieve this, scientists are working towards developing a customized probe design that can be implanted at different locations on the spine to collect data from various spinal cord cross-sections. Furthermore, these probes will be equipped with stimulation capabilities, potentially offering a solution for restoring fine motor control in patients with spinal cord injuries.
Additionally, researchers are hopeful that identifying specific spinal neurons involved in pain-signal relay could pave the way for better pain-management therapies. The team’s objective is to shrink the size of the NETs and seamlessly integrate them into a comprehensive data-processing and stimulation-feedback system.
Collaborations with other research laboratories will facilitate the testing of these devices across a range of spinal regions, animal models, and research topics. Through this cooperation, the research community aims to gain a deeper understanding of spinal cord function and provide a vital tool for future neuroscience studies.
With this significant funding and the expertise of researchers at Rice University, the project holds tremendous potential in transforming our understanding of spinal cord function. As the team optimizes the NET probes for use in spinal research, they draw closer to uncovering breakthrough therapies and improving the lives of patients with spinal cord injuries and related conditions.
About Road Rug Cars
Road Rug Cars is a leading online platform that covers the latest news and developments in the automotive industry, offering readers in-depth insights into various aspects of the world of cars.
“Travel aficionado. Incurable bacon specialist. Tv evangelist. Wannabe internet enthusiast. Typical creator.”