Picture: RCSI
A research team from the RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences has unveiled a new 3D-printed implant that delivers electrical signals to injured areas of the spinal cord. The work, published in the journal Advanced Science, presents an experimental approach to promoting neural regeneration following traumatic spinal cord injuries—a field in which therapeutic options have so far been limited.
The goal of the research is to support the regeneration of nerve cells through targeted electrical stimulation. To achieve this, the team developed a conductive biomaterial that is transformed into a soft, gel-like structure using 3D printing. The implant mimics the physical architecture of the spinal cord and contains a fine mesh of conductive nanofibers responsible for transmitting electrical signals to nerve and stem cells.
“Promoting the regrowth of neurons after spinal cord injury has been historically difficult however our group is developing electrically conductive biomaterials that could channel electrical stimulation across the injury, helping the body to repair the damaged tissue,” explains Opens in new windowProfessor Fergal O’Brien, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation and Professor of Bioengineering and Regenerative Medicine at RCSI and Head of RCSI’s Tissue Engineering Research Group (TERG).“The unique environment provided by the Opens in new windowAMBER Centre which sees biomedical engineers, biologists and material scientists working together to solve grand societal challenges provides a major opportunity for disruptive innovation such as this.”
The conductive nanomaterials originate from the lab of Professor Valeria Nicolosi at Trinity College Dublin. While these materials are typically used in battery and sensor technologies, they were successfully integrated into the bioactive matrix. Researchers from the Tissue Engineering Research Group (TERG) at RCSI and the AMBER Centre also customized the fiber arrangement to further optimize signal transmission and cell growth.
“These 3D-printed materials allow us to tune the delivery of electrical stimulation to control regrowth and may enable a new generation of medical devices for traumatic spinal cord injuries,” said Dr Ian Woods, Research Fellow at TERG and first author of the study. “Beyond spinal repair, this technology also has potential for applications in cardiac, orthopaedic and neurological treatments where electrical signalling can drive healing.”“Through their expertise, the advisory panel helped deepen our understanding of the lived experiences of individuals with spinal cord injuries, their treatment priorities and emerging treatment approaches,” said Dr Woods. “Our regular meetings allowed for a consistent exchange of input, ideas and results.”
A supporting advisory board—including injured rugby players—provided practical expertise to the project. The study was funded by the IRFU Charitable Trust, the AMBER Centre, and the Irish Research Council.
