Regenerative nerve implant to restore touch and limb-position sense for prosthetic users
Regenerative Micro-Electrode Peripheral Nerve Interface for Optimized Proprioceptive and Cutaneous specific interfacing
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON · NIH-11177958
This project develops a tiny regenerative nerve implant to give people with arm amputations more natural touch and limb-position feelings when using a prosthetic hand.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11177958 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If you have an upper-limb amputation, the team plans to place a Y-shaped, ultra-thin nerve interface at the cut median nerve to steer touch and position-sensing nerve fibers into separate channels. Molecular cues in the device are intended to guide cutaneous and proprioceptive axons down different arms so electrodes can more specifically read and stimulate each type of signal. The very small electrode contacts aim to reduce unwanted tingling and keep signals stable over time. Researchers will map how those signals reach brain sensory areas and track whether the interface produces clearer, more reliable sensations and better prosthetic control.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (21+) with upper-limb amputations, especially involving the median nerve region, who are willing and healthy enough for surgical implantation and follow-up care.
Not a fit: People with lower-limb amputations, those not eligible for nerve surgery, or users who prefer or require only non-invasive prosthetic solutions are unlikely to benefit from this implant-focused work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could provide prosthetic users with more natural, reliable touch and position feedback, improving hand control and comfort.
How similar studies have performed: Previous peripheral nerve interface work has shown promising sensory feedback in some patients, but long-term stability and selective proprioceptive targeting remain limited, so this molecularly guided approach is novel.
Where this research is happening
HOUSTON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON — HOUSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FRANCIS, JOSEPH T — UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON
- Study coordinator: FRANCIS, JOSEPH T
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 below.