The quest to build bionic limbs that feel like the real thing

Fred Schwaller | Nature News Feature

Through brain implants, neural interfaces and skin grafts, researchers are starting to restore sensation for paralysed or amputated limbs.

Imagine regaining the ability to feel touch after decades without sensationÑall through the power of advanced neurotechnology. For Scott Imbrie, this extraordinary journey has become a reality.

A fantastic new article in Nature Portfolio illustrates a significant milestone: the development of bionic limbs that feel like natural extensions of the body.

In 1985, Scott sustained a severe spinal cord injury that limited his mobility and sensation. Today, heÕs movingÑand feelingÑthrough a robotic arm, thanks to pioneering work at the University of Chicago and Blackrock Neurotech’s cutting-edge BCI technology.

“I can feel my brain getting reprogrammed to feel different types of stimuli,” Scott explains. “It’s like being a child learning to touch again, but I have the language and imagination to describe how I’m perceiving things.”

Beyond technical achievement, this sensory feedback has reinvigorated ScottÕs connection to the world, enhancing his quality of life. Integrating touch has made the prosthetic more intuitive, reducing phantom limb pain, enhancing embodiment, and transforming the user experience.

WeÕre incredibly proud of our role in enabling these breakthroughs, which exemplify the power of high-resolution intracortical recording and stimulation to restore sensory function.

Our deepest gratitude to the pioneering researchersÑGiacomo Valle, Robert Gaunt, Jennifer Collinger, and many othersÑwho are pushing the boundaries of whatÕs possible. We also honor the late Sliman Bensmaia, whose vision continues to inspire our work in neuroengineering. And, of course, a special thank you to individuals like Scott Imbrie, whose dedication (four days a week, three hours at a time) is invaluable to advancing this technology.

The future of neural interfaces goes beyond restoring movement; itÕs about reviving the sensory richness of human experience. With each step forward, weÕre bringing this vision closer to realityÑnot just for individuals like Scott, but for countless others seeking to reconnect with the world.

Read Fred Schwaller, PhD’s illustrative piece in Nature to learn more.