Bioengineering and neuroscience have come together to develop innovative therapies that seem more like a science film than the present. On the one hand, a type of artificial blood has been developed. It is obtained through the extraction of hemoglobin from expired blood. The result has been the creation of an universal blood type that does not require compatibility. On the other hand, the pain of diseases related to the nervous system could be reduced with a video game that trains the brain through movements. Another of the advances is that humans have the ability to have infrared vision through soft lenses. Doesn’t that sound like a futuristic scenario?
Medical technology
China, Japan and Australia are leading the way in medical technology. Its researchers work on studies that seek to improve human quality, even improving the natural functions of the human body. Although a priori it may sound disturbing, the reality is that they represent advances of incalculable value for the field of medicine and for the quality of life of patients.
The combination of engineering, algorithms and biology is what has made it possible for this research to go ahead with highly promising results. Artificial blood, lenses to detect infrared light, video games that soothe pain and an artificial eye over human are some of the projects underway which, if all goes well, will be able to see the light in a few years’ time.
Infrared vision in humans
Have you ever dreamed of being able to see in the dark? Because several researchers from the Chinese University of Science and Technology have developed white transparent lenses that incorporate nanoparticles that are able to convert infrared light (NIR) into visible light. Cell echoed this news, where it was explained that they work without surgical intervention and sion battery. The structure of particles in charge of generating the necessary energy. These lenses transform low-energy photons into higher-energy photons. This process is called up conversion.
Human testing revealed how participants were able to detect Morse code shapes and signals through infrared light. The most curious thing about this study is that perception and sharpness are greatest with eyes closed. This is because infrared (NIR) light passes through the eyelid, whereas visible light does not. This advance would be of assistance to people with color blindness and also applicable in the field of security.
Artificial blood
A project led by a woman, Hiromi Sakai, a researcher at Nara Medical University, has found the safe and durable solution for blood transfusions. They have developed a synthetic blood through the extraction of hemoglobin from expired blood. From it, they have formed synthetic red blood cells. Cells that do not require compatibility because they have no antigens. With a durability of 2 years (5 if frozen), it is more advantageous than human blood. Will be infinitely useful in disaster situations and hospitals.
Videogame to calm the pain
PainWave is a video game developed by researchers at the University of New South Wales, which helps patients with corneal neuropathic pain who cannot relieve their pain without medication. Through the use of helmets with brain sensors and. An interactive application, helps to calm the brainwaves and with them, the pain. there hasn´t been serious side effects, so it could be a very interesting alternative to medication for patients affected.
The potential medical applications of these studies are incredibly positive. Alternatives to the intake of chemicals, infinite blood banks, possibility to create shapes even with eyes closed… it sounds crazy! However, they would represent a huge step forward in both technological and medical terms, but especially for the users who could benefit from them. I hope that all this research will continue and become a reality.
Find out what other advances seem like science fiction!
