emPOWER project aims for artificial muscles

Sarcopenia – the loss of skeletal muscle mass and function – is responsible for health problems, body function disorders and is brought about by ageing, stroke, trauma and degenerative diseases. Current treatments are predominantly based on external devices such as orthoses and rigid exoskeletons that can cause tissue damage and are limited in use.

Led by Jonathan Rossiter, Professor of Robotics at Bristol University, the emPOWER will explore how artificial muscles could radically transform treatment options in the future and effectively turn back the body clock. Project partners include Imperial College, UCL and the NIHR Devices for Dignity MedTech Co-operative, hosted by Sheffield Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust.

“We are working on the principle that implanting robotic, artificial muscles to replace or work alongside our own muscles, can restore natural body function and help us all to live longer, more comfortable and active lives,” Prof Rossiter said in a statement. “emPOWER implantable muscles must work seamlessly with the body. They must be biocompatible, integrate smoothly and strongly with natural bone and tissue, and coordinate intelligently with the patient’s own movements and muscle actions.”