Nature Podcast

A new hydrogel can be directly injected into muscle to help it regenerate

Nov 1, 2023

Researchers have developed an injectable gel that can heal and regenerate damaged muscles in rats, showing promise for human applications. Ancient human genomes provide insights into Europe's first humans, and ferns inspire pest-resistant crops. Scientists are using wallbakia-infused mosquitoes to control dengue fever. Researchers study the genetic basis of starfish body plans, challenging previous theories. The hosts wrap up the episode and offer special discounts on scientific journal subscriptions and skincare products.

23:27

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Quick takeaways

Injectable hydrogels can be directly injected into injured muscle to stimulate regeneration and aid healing.

By improving conductivity and strength, researchers have developed an injectable hydrogel solution that stimulates muscle movement and facilitates tissue repair.

Deep dives

Developing Injectable Hydrogel for Muscle Repair

Researchers have developed an injectable hydrogel solution that aims to replace and regenerate muscles. Muscles can get injured and severely injured muscles can lead to immobility and challenges in healing. Traditional options for muscle injuries have limitations, such as not promoting muscle healing or being applicable to hard-to-reach places. Hydrogels, soft materials that mimic biological tissues, can be injected directly into damaged tissues, aiding healing. The research team improved hydrogel conductivity and strength through clever chemistry, enabling muscle stimulation and regrowth. In rat models with severe muscle injuries, the hydrogel solution successfully stimulated muscle movement and facilitated muscle regeneration within four weeks.

Introduction

1min

Injectable Hydrogel for Muscle Regeneration

9min

Exploring the Genetic Legacy of Early Homo sapiens in Europe and the Use of Fern Proteins for Pest-Resistant Crops

3min

Using Wallbakia-Infused Mosquitoes to Combat Dengue Fever

4min

Exploring the Genetic Basis of Starfish Body Plans

7min

Episode conclusion, Nature Plus and Osea's Superglow Body Set offer

2min

In this episode:

00:46 An injectable gel for healing muscles

Severe muscle injury can be debilitating, with long recuperation periods. Now, researchers have developed a material that can be directly injected into injured muscle, helping to stimulate and heal damaged tissue. The team showed this approach could rapidly restore walking ability in severely injured rats and regenerate muscles within four weeks. They hope that this solution could one day help humans with similar injuries, and overcome some of the limitations of current recuperation strategies.

Research article: Jin et al.

News and Views: Hydrogel implant rehabilitates muscles through electrical stimulation