Core Insights - A new method developed by the Medical University of Vienna and Imperial College London allows for precise capture and decoding of hidden neural signals in the residual limbs of upper limb amputees, translating them into accurate movement commands for prosthetic limbs [1][2] Group 1: Research and Development - The research involved implanting a novel 40-channel microelectrode array into three upper limb amputee volunteers, utilizing targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) surgery to create a new biological interface [1] - TMR surgery reconnects residual arm nerves to remaining muscles, enabling the detection of neural signals originally used to control the hand and arm [1] - The team achieved direct measurement of individual motor neuron activity located in the spinal cord, which transmits movement commands from the brain to the muscles [1] Group 2: Implications for Prosthetics - This breakthrough indicates that future prosthetic limbs will no longer rely on simple muscle contraction patterns for coarse control but will respond to users' finer and more natural movement intentions [2] - The current research lays the groundwork for the development of next-generation wireless implantable devices, which may enable real-time wireless transmission of neural signals to prosthetic hands or other assistive systems [2] - Ultimately, this technology aims to help amputees regain near-natural limb functionality [2]