By The Nexus Gazette.
29th July, 2024.
In a groundbreaking advancement, scientists at the University of Chicago have designed a revolutionary pacemaker that harnesses light to generate bioelectricity, potentially transforming the treatment of heart disease. This innovative device operates like a tiny solar panel, converting light into electrical signals to regulate heartbeats, marking a significant leap forward in cardiac care.
Traditional pacemakers rely on batteries and metallic leads to stimulate the heart. These components can sometimes cause tissue damage and limit the device’s functionality. The new light-powered pacemaker, however, eliminates the need for batteries and rigid electrodes. Instead, it uses an ultrathin silicon membrane and optic fibers to deliver precise electrical stimulation to the heart muscle .
The pacemaker is designed to be minimally invasive, allowing for implantation without the need for open-heart surgery. The device’s optic fibers capture light and convert it into bioelectricity, which then stimulates the cardiac muscles. This novel approach not only reduces the risk of complications but also facilitates more natural heart function .
The device has already shown encouraging results in preclinical trials, successfully regulating heartbeats in rodents and pigs. Given the anatomical similarities between pig hearts and human hearts, researchers are optimistic about the device’s potential for human use .
This new technology represents a significant step forward in the field of cardiac care, potentially improving the quality of life for patients with heart disease by offering a more natural and less invasive treatment option.
The development of this light-powered pacemaker heralds a new era in the treatment of heart disease. With the potential to eliminate the need for batteries and rigid electrodes, this innovative device offers hope for more effective and less invasive cardiac care.
Resources:
1.https://www.sciencealert.com/pacemakers-powered-by-light-could-revolutionize-heart-disease-treatment