U.S. Representative Celeste Maloy (R-UT) on Aug. 19 toured the Biologic Input Output Systems (BIOS) lab, part of the University of Utah’s Craig H. Neilsen Rehabilitation Hospital, to observe research into prosthetics innovation.

Led by University of Utah NeuroRobotics Lab Director and BIOS Chief Scientist Jacob “Jake” George, alongside BIOS Chief Development Officer Tim Miller, the tour showcased a revolutionary neural interface – a technology that enables amputees to control any commercially available robotic prosthesis via thought while experiencing tactile feedback. For example, the advanced prosthesis, dubbed the LUKE Arm (a nod to Star Wars lore), allows users to feel the touch of a loved one’s hand and perform high-dexterity tasks—like picking grapes, holding an egg without breaking it, and lifting suitcases – activities that standard prostheses make nearly impossible. In 2022, BIOS officially licensed this technology from the University of Utah. 

“Utah continues to lead the way in medical innovation,” said Maloy. “It was inspiring to see BIOS and the University of Utah collaborate to translate neural signals into real-world mobility and life-like sensation for amputees. This work places Utah at the cutting edge of medical innovation and is restoring independence and dignity to veterans, service members, and civilians.”

Staff from BioUtah, the University of Utah’s Center for Medical Innovation, and the Nucleus Institute were also in attendance. The Nucleus Institute, housed under the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, has launched a “Neurotech Catalyst” initiative to accelerate commercialization and emerging brain-computer interface technologies.

As the visit wrapped up, Rep. Maloy and the BIOS team discussed the importance of reducing regulatory red tape and promoting federal policies that will help drive entrepreneurship and forward-thinking investments.

“It was an honor to host Rep. Maloy,” said Miller. 

Denise Bell, vice president at BioUtah, expressed gratitude for Maloy’s support for Utah’s life sciences industry, specifically highlighting her sponsorship of the Ensuring Patient Access to Critical Breakthrough Products Act to fast-track Medicare coverage.

The FDA has granted the BIOS direct nerve interface a Breakthrough Device Designation to help expedite its clinical review pathway.