Researchers from NYU Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, have developed a tiny, injectable medical device that offers a new approach to treating chronic pain and movement disorders by controlling nerve activity without the need for surgery, batteries, or wires. The announcement was made on June 12.
The device is about the size of a small seed and can be injected into the body using a standard needle to be placed near a target nerve. Once positioned, it delivers controlled electrical signals that influence how the nerve behaves. The system is powered wirelessly from outside the body, allowing doctors or patients to adjust its activity in real time.
According to research published in Science Advances, this technology provides an alternative approach that combines precision with minimal invasiveness. It complements existing treatment options such as medical implants or medications depending on patient needs.
"This work represents a shift in how we think about treating nerve-related conditions," said Prof. Khalil Ramadi, Assistant Professor of Bioengineering at NYU Abu Dhabi and NYU Tandon and the study's senior author. "By creating a device that can be injected rather than surgically implanted, we are making these therapies simpler, safer, and more accessible, while still maintaining precise control over nerve activity."
The device can be tracked using standard medical imaging like ultrasound and CT scans for accurate placement and monitoring. Once deployed, it delivers programmable electrical stimulation tailored to individual patient requirements.
"This collaboration with NYU Abu Dhabi reflects our commitment to advancing innovative, clinically relevant research that translates into meaningful improvements in patient care," said Dr. Sawsan Abdel-Razig, Chief Academic Officer at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. "By bringing together multidisciplinary expertise, this work highlights how academic partnerships can accelerate the development of safer, less invasive therapies and expand access to advanced treatments for patients." In laboratory and preclinical testing under realistic conditions—including activation of nerves in vivo—the device demonstrated precise control over stimulation and consistent performance.
"This technology has the potential to bridge the gap between non-invasive therapies and traditional implants," said Dr. Mohamed Elsherif, Research Associate at NYU Abu Dhabi and first author of the study. "It opens the door to treatments that are both effective and easy to deliver, which could significantly improve patient care." By reducing major procedures required for advanced therapy delivery, researchers say this technology could make treatment more accessible while lowering risks and recovery times.
