Sweden – The teams of the Departments of Physiology University of Stockholm and Linköping have successfully created the first artificial nerve cells which can communicate with nerve cells of a man.

Electrical stimulation has long been used to activate nerve signals. Cochlear implants (ie,  surgically implants installed in the inner ear) are an example. This method, if it activates the cells close to the implant, however offers a very average result. Failure to recognize the different types of cells is the cause.

The artificial cell is composed of electrodes inserted in a plastic driver. This new type of electrode is capable of releasing the exact same neurotransmitters as those used by nerve cells to communicate between them. Tests on guinea pigs showed that the electrode can control the hearing function.

For Dr. Richter-Dahlfors, of the Karolinska Institute, “the possibility of administering the correct dose of neurotransmitters opens new opportunities to correct the signaling systems that are deficient in several neurological diseases.”

Researchers are now developing a device small enough to be implanted in the body. The device can be programmed to deliver signals in a flexible manner, according to the needs of the patient and without disturbing their physiological functioning. This new technology could help people suffering from Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy or hearing loss.