Houston-based Rice University researchers developed graphene nanoribbons, intended as a treatment for spinal cord injuries, according to Tech Times. The researchers tested the ability of Texas-PEG, a compound of customized graphene nanoribbons in polyethylene glycol, to heal a rodent's damaged spinal cord.
Surgical Neurology International published the paper.
Here are four insights:
1. Texas-PEG successfully restored a rodent's motor and sensor neuronal signals after it experienced a spinal cord injury.
2. The rodent experienced full motor control recovery after two weeks.
3. Graphene possesses a conductive surface property in stimulating neuronal growth.
4. The researchers hope their study will lead to eventual human trials, testing Texas-PEG to heal human SCI.