Georgia Tech researchers have developed a biodegradable polymer containing a chemical group that mimics the neurotransmitter acetylcholine to spur the growth of neurites, which form the connections among neurons and between neurons and other cells.

The biomimetic polymers would guide the growth of a regenerating nerve. This would help victims of central nervous system injury, stroke or certain neurodegenerative diseases to recover sensory, motor, cognitive or autonomic functions.