Hardware Podcasts

251. Tiny Robots Helped Paralyzed Mice Walk Again

The Next Byte Podcast · 29 Sept 2026 · 16m

What this episode covers

Researchers at ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich developed 'NPC bots'—neural progenitor cells coated with magnetoelectric nanoparticles—to repair spinal cord injuries in mice. By injecting these bots and using external magnetic fields to stimulate nerve growth, the team achieved significant motor function recovery in mice within four weeks, overcoming limitations of invasive electrode-based therapies. The hosts discuss the manufacturing process, the advantages over existing treatments, and the promising results from zebrafish and mouse trials.

Most relevant to

early-stage companies

Topics

Mentioned

Companies
Mouser Electronics, Neurolink, ETH Zurich, University of Zurich
Products
NPC bots

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