Regenerative micro-electrode interface to improve feeling and control in artificial arms
Official title: Regenerative Micro-Electrode Peripheral Nerve Interface for Optimized Proprioceptive and Cutaneous specific interfacing
Funded at University of Houston · NIH-11393606 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study in adults with an amputation will test a tiny, regenerative nerve interface designed to give more natural-feeling and precise control of prosthetic limbs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $387,766 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS125435-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11393606 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with upper-limb amputation who are candidates for advanced neural interfaces and prosthetic integration.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without an upper-limb amputation or those not undergoing neural-interface procedures may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project aims to place a very thin regenerative multi-electrode interface at the cut end of a severed nerve to guide specific nerve fibers for better sensory feedback and control of a prosthetic arm. The approach uses molecular cues to encourage cutaneous and proprioceptive fibers to grow along designated paths, potentially reducing unwanted signals and improving steadiness of movement. Researchers will monitor nerve signals and sensory percepts over time to see if the interface provides clearer, more natural sensations and improved grasp control for users. The work involves surgical implantation, long-term follow-up, and electrophysiological assessments to evaluate safety and performance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this technology could lead to more intuitive and natural-feeling control of prosthetic limbs for amputees.
How similar studies have gone: Prior neural interface efforts have shown promise but face challenges with stability and natural sensation; this study tests a novel regenerative, ultra-thin interface.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Francis, Joseph T — University of Houston
- Study coordinator: Francis, Joseph T
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.