Brain-controlled bionic limbs are inching closer to reality

An “anatomics” approach to bionic prostheses reworks the body for smoother integration

A looping video clip of a person with one bionic leg prosthesis climbing a short set of steps in a lab

As part of a recent clinical trial, a recipient of a new type of bionic leg prosthesis — one that reengineers muscles to provide better feedback and control — climbs stairs with ease.

H. Song et al/Nature Medicine 2024

The word “bionic” conjures sci-fi visions of humans enhanced to superhuman levels.