Healthy Living

Could a Pacemaker-Like Implant Be the Next Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment?

Final thoughts

Another benefit of using bioelectronics is that it can reduce levels of TNF, rather than completely blocking it, which Tracy notes could help avoid complications of immunosuppression that can be common in patients taking TNF-blocking medications. The bioelectronic approach may also reduce the levels of other molecules that are linked to inflammation which may offer further hope to those who have not found relief anywhere else. 

Kox was a little more cautious than Tracey at commenting on the potential benefits of using bioelectronics. He said that he was slightly reluctant to say that this technology is a magic bullet, by any means. However, the pathway does seem interesting and could possible lead to other treatment methods for those with relevant diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

 

References:

Davis, N. (2017, September 8). Could electrical implants replace pills for some illnesses? [Web]. The Guardian. Retrieved from: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2017/sep/08/could-electrical-implants-replace-pills-for-some-illnesses-bioelectronics