Neural Prosthetics Project
Neural prosthetics for restoring lost functions
Research Summary
Our goal is to conceive of innovative ideas for neuro-rehabilitation of lost functions after nervous system damage, and to translate these ideas into clinical applications capable of improving the quality of life for individuals with neural damage.
Specifically, we are developing a neural interface known as an “artificial neuronal connection (ANC)”. This ANC bridges spinal lesions by connecting supra-spinal systems with spinal networks distal to the lesion to restore lost functions. We are conducting clinical trials to assess the effectiveness of ANCs in restoring motor function in paralyzed patients. We are also investigating neural changes that occur during recovery.
Depression impedes, and motivation enhances, functional recovery after neuronal damage. Although higher motivation seems to boost motor performance and recovery, neural substrates underlying this psychological effect remains unknown. We are identifying these neuronal substrates using humans and animal models.
Selected Publications
- Kato K, et al. (2019) “Bypassing stroke-damaged neural pathways via a neural interface induces targeted cortical adaptation.” Nature Communications. 10(1):4699.
- Umeda, et al., (2019) “The somatosensory cortex receives information about motor output.“ Science Advances., 5(7):eaaw5388.
- Sawada M, et al. (2015) “Function of the nucleus accumbens in motor control during recovery after spinal cord injury.” Science 350(6256):98-101.
- Nishimura Y, et al. (2013) “Spike-timing-dependent plasticity in primate corticospinal connections induced during free behavior.” Neuron 80(5):1301-1309.
- Nishimura Y, et al. (2009) “A subcortical oscillatory network contributes to recovery of hand dexterity after spinal cord injury.” Brain. 132(Pt 3):709-721
- Nishimura Y, et al. (2007) “Time-dependent central compensatory mechanisms of finger dexterity after spinal cord injur.” Science. 318(5853):1150-1155.