In order to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topics described in the press release, I did extensive research on communication using molecules and active implanted medical devices. These are often complex subjects, sometimes not well understood by general readership.
Background Research:
Molecular communication is an innovative concept where messages are transmitted via biological molecules. This revolutionary mode of communication offers numerous benefits particularly when utilized within medical contexts for things like biomedical sensing and implantable devices.
Active implantable medical devices (AIMD) such as cardiac pacemakers or insulin pumps regularly need to communicate with control units outside the patient’s body. Currently, this happens via electromagnetic waves that can lead to interferences impacting both the device’s operation and patient’s safety.
The Horizon program funded by EU seeks innovative solutions towards scientific problems with its focus on research and innovation. The particular project mentioned here encompasses developing molecular communications for AIMDs, seeking to reduce electromagnetic interferences currently encountered in these devices.
FAQs:
Q1: What is molecular communication?
A1: Molecular communication is a new way of transmitting information using biological molecules instead of traditional methods like electrical signals or radio waves.
Q2: How does molecular communication work?
A2: Instead of sending information as electrical impulses or radio signals, molecular communications use biologically-encoded chemical ‚messages‘. Those messages travel from source to recipient along specific pathways.
Q3: What are active implanted medical devices?
A3: Active implanted medical devices (AIMDs) refer to any active medical device which is intended to be totally or partially introduced into the human body or by medical intervention into a natural opening and which is intended to remain after procedure. Examples include heart pacemakers, nerve stimulators, insulin pumps etc.
Q4: Why would an alternative method for communicating with implanted medical devices be needed?
A4: Currently all AIMDs communicate through electromagnetic waves which could potentially interfere with other electronic systems in vicinity causing disruption in working of implanted devices and potentially leading to dramatic consequences for patients‘ health. Molecular communication will bypass these problems by providing a more secure route for delivering instructions to the device.
Q5: What is the Horizon program?
A5: Funded by the European Union, Horizon is a funding scheme with concentration on research and innovation around scientific projects which can drive economic growth or provide other benefits to society.
Q6: Why has this approach been considered now?
A6: With increasing numbers of AIMDs being used, interference issues are becoming more frequent necessitating an alternative communications method. This project will enable advancement in medical technology reducing risks associated with AIMDs improving patient safety.
Originamitteilung:
The European Union is funding a project to develop a new concept of information transmission for active implanted medical devices as part of its funding program Horizon