Overview

• The implants are wrapped in a biodegradable coating loaded with stem cells and a protein that encourages them to differentiate into nerve tissue
• Tiny, memory-foam-like nanofibers in the coating expand after placement to fill the socket and allow a gentler, minimally invasive surgical approach
• In rodent studies, implants remained securely in place for six weeks without signs of inflammation or rejection and showed soft-tissue integration instead of direct bone fusion
• The next phase involves monitoring brain activity in larger animal models to confirm that the regenerated nerves can transmit pressure and texture information
• Researchers believe the same coating and nerve-integration technique could be adapted for other bone implants, including hip replacements and fracture repairs