Bioelectronic Medicine: Beyond Biochemistry

The remarkable convergence of advances in bioengineering and neurology has resulted in a fast-developing approach to reading from and writing to the nervous system, known as bioelectronic medicine. These advances allow scientists to identify specific nerves of interest and to implant devices that can detect or stimulate them. In some applications, this electronic input is expected to control cells in distal organs, modulating immune and metabolic responses. While some bioelectronic, or electroceutical, therapies already exist to treat conditions such as headaches, certain cases of depression, and chronic sinus or other pain, the new wave of electricity-based strategies could expand to help people with some of the most widespread chronic diseases in the world, including high blood pressure, arthritis, diabetes, some forms of blindness, and even dementia.  The panel will discuss the future of Bioelectronic Medicine from the perspective of innovators, investors, and pharma.