A new biohybrid system reprograms living muscles into fatigue-resistant, computer-controlled motors that can be implanted inside the body to restore movement in organs. Development of the myoneural actuator was led by Hugh Herr and colleagues at MIT.

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MIT researchers have developed a myoneural actuator (MNA), a biohybrid system that reprograms living muscles into fatigue-resistant, computer-controlled motors implantable inside the body. By rerouting motor signals through sensory nerves rather than motor neurons, the system bypasses brain control and allows a computer to command muscle movement in paralyzed organs. In rodent tests, the MNA restored intestinal squeezing motion, increased muscle fatigue resistance by 260%, and transmitted sensory signals back to the brain. Potential applications include restoring function in paralyzed bladders, intestines, and stomachs, as well as relaying tactile feedback for prosthesis users and even augmenting virtual reality experiences.

Turning muscles into motors gives static organs new life