Engineering Life: The Power and Promise of Biomedical Innovation

Biomedical Engineering: What, Why and Who?

You’ve probably heard of a woman’s biological clock—but have you ever wondered if men have one too? Researchers at Penn State University discovered that while mitochondrial DNA mutations in eggs remain relatively stable with age, the same isn’t true for sperm. (Source) This finding highlights that reproductive health is vital for both partners when planning a family. Further exploration could reveal ways to prevent teratogenic effects in children born to older couples. Fascinating, isn’t it? This discovery reflects how biomedical engineers often stand at the intersection of biology and technology, asking such fundamental questions and translating them into medical innovation.

This is just one glimpse into the vast world of Biomedical Engineering. Biomedical Engineering, as defined by NIH, states that “Biomedical Engineering integrates physical, chemical, mathematical, and computational sciences and engineering principles to study biology, medicine, behaviour and health. It advances fundamental concepts, creates knowledge from the molecular to the organ systems levels, and develops innovative biologies, materials, processes, implants, devices, and informatics approaches for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease, for patient rehabilitation, and for improving health.” (Source)

In simpler terms, this domain of engineering at the forefront of the medical revolution, draws upon principles from various fields and coalesces them with human physiology and anatomy. Depending on the level at which a problem is addressed, biomedical engineers design tools and technologies for diagnostic, therapeutic, rehabilitative, theranostic, or preventive applications. A well-known example is Elon Musk’s Neuralink, whose brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) are based on the first principles of engineering and enable direct communication between the brain and external devices. Similarly, individuals with paraplegia (paralysis of the lower half of the body) and quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs) are now using BCIs not only to independently communicate and control prosthetics but also to create art and express themselves in new ways. (Source) This precedent demonstrates not just utility but aspirational capability giving these people who had lost all hope, a chance to live again.

Such breakthroughs are the result of interdisciplinary collaboration of bioengineers, clinicians, and scientists working seamlessly across disciplines. The US Bureau of Labour Statistics defines: “Bioengineers and biomedical engineers combine engineering principles with sciences to design and create equipment, devices, computer systems, and software.” (Source)

Hence, Biomedical Engineering is the intersection of science, technology and humanity. As a biomedical engineer myself, specializing in neural engineering, I focus on understanding how neural circuits communicate under both normal and pathological conditions. My graduate thesis examines the thalamo-cortical dynamics of interictal epileptiform discharges, which are neural spikes that occur between seizures (considered biomarkers for epilepsy). Through this work, I aim to contribute to the development of analytical and therapeutic tools that can enhance clinical understanding and improve patient outcomes.

Thus, in every healthcare innovation lies the quiet promise of a second chance and the restored hope of a healthier future.

This post is written by Saanya Aroura who has completed her Masters in Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering from Arizona State University. If you would like to learn more about here work, please find her LinkedIn here.

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