Better Bionics

Science Not Fiction
By Stephen Cass
Jul 3, 2008 9:00 PMNov 5, 2019 1:05 AM
bionicwoman.jpg

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

Ah, Bionic Woman, we hardly knew you. Wounded by plummeting ratings after an initial strong showing and finished off by the writer's strike, Bionic Woman proved that "reimagined" isn't always better, with the show lasting just eight episodes compared to the original The Bionic Woman's 59 episodes. However, there's better news in real-life bionics, with researchers at Georgia Tech announcing they have found a way to make metal implants more compatible with the human body. The researchers discover that by coating titanium with a carefully engineered polymer, they were able to convince the human body to grow fresh bone around the metal implant, as if it was knitting together a broken arm or leg. This replaces the need to use a ceramic substance to glue the implant in place. While the technology is aimed more at those who need hip or knee replacement joints than cyborg warriors, this ability to work in concert with the body's own healing systems is a significant advance for those considering the potential of implants of all stripes.

1 free article left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

1 free articleSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.