Chinese scientists create world’s first bionic interface that mimics functioning of auditory nerve

A team of scientists from Nankai University in China has developed an experimental biomimetic auditory nerve interface – a system that combines the processing of sound signals with their transmission to the nervous system. This was reported by Science and Technology Daily, a partner of TV BRICS.

Modern cochlear implants enable people with severe hearing loss to perceive sounds by converting acoustic signals into electrical impulses, which are transmitted via the remaining auditory nerve. However, where this nerve is severely damaged or absent, such devices have limited effectiveness.

The new system developed by Chinese scientists aims to address this problem. It is capable of detecting sounds, performing neuromorphic processing on them, and converting the information into signals that can interact with the nervous system.

During experiments, the researchers implanted the device in deaf rabbits. Following implantation, the animals were able to perceive sound signals, distinguish between individual voice commands and perform the associated behavioural tasks.

According to the scientists, the device mimics certain functions of the natural auditory pathway: it does not simply detect sound but attempts to analyse and encode auditory information before transmitting it to the nervous system.

Going forward, the research team plans to refine the device, study its safety and explore its potential for medical applications. Further research and clinical trials will be required before it can be used in humans.