Incredible Spinal Cord Implant Helps Paralyzed Rats Walk Again

Researchers have developed a thin, electrode-embedded ribbon which, when implanted along the spinal cord, lets paralyzed rats move again. Researchers are hoping to advance to clinical trials in humans soon.

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[École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne]

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DISCUSSION

Pope Somhairle, Bishop of Evans, Pine, Hemsworth, Anti-Pratt

So, a question: this says the ribbon lies along the spinal cord. So in order for this to work, does the full spinal cord have to be present, even if nonfunctional? Or will this act as a literal prosthetic, able to replace and switch with the damaged livibg tissue?

I ask simplu to understand the implications of this tech. It's amazing either way, so please understand I'm not belittling what is accomplished here.