Organ Neuroprosthetics: Connecting Transplanted and Artificial Organs with the Nervous System

Implantable neural interfaces with the central and peripheral nervous systems are currently used to restore sensory, motor, and cognitive functions in disabled people with very promising results. They have also been used to modulate autonomic activities to treat diseases such as diabetes or hypertension. Here, this study proposes to extend the use of these technologies to (re-)establish the connection between new (transplanted or artificial) organs and the nervous system in order to increase the long-term efficacy and the effective biointegration of these solutions. In this perspective paper, some clinically relevant applications of this approach are briefly described. Then, the choices that neural engineers must implement about the type, implantation location, and closed-loop control algorithms to successfully realize this approach are highlighted. It is believed that these new "organ neuroprostheses" are going to become more and more valuable and very effective solutions in the years to come. The paper introduces the concept of "organ neuroprosthetics," which involves using implantable neural interfaces to establish connections between transplanted or artificial organs and the nervous system. This approach could lead to more effective and durable solutions for patients undergoing organ transplantation or receiving artificial organs. To achieve this goal, specific neurotechnological solutions must be identified for each clinical application. image