It looks like more of Star Trek's science fiction is becoming science fact. NASA is working with a Texas-based company to develop two new devises. One that will build 3d human cells, and another one that will treat pain externally without medications. We're wondering if the Dermal Regenerator will be the next "flip phone"...

Nasa has signed a deal to create ‘novel biotechnology’ devices including a system that builds 3D human cells, and another that treats pain externally.

The gadgets will be built under patent licensing agreements in partnership with Texas-based GRoK Technologies and are the results of the agency's Technology Transfer Program.

The first device, called BioReplicates, will let users create 3D human tissue models that can be used for drug and cosmetic testing.

They will increase the ‘safety, efficacy and toxicity’ of current tests and add ‘greater accuracy, reliability and cost-efficiency.’

Nasa said the technology could help reduce animal testing, too.

The technology would work in a similar way to the dermal regenerators used in Star Trek and future models could one day heal wounds automatically.
 

They go on to say:

The second technology, called Scionic, would be used in medical devices that could target musculoskeletal pain and inflammation externally.

For example, devices could be rubbed over the skin and boost the body’s natural painkilling functions, without the use of drugs.
 

Read the full article here.

(Source: Daily Mail)