Cleveland, United States - September 03, 2025 Case Western Reserve University researchers are advancing technology that can give prosthetic hands a sense of touch, making them feel like a natural extension of the body. The university has received a $9.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program to fund a new clinical trial testing sensory-enabled neuro-controlled prostheses. The trial will recruit 12 people with upper-limb amputations to compare standard prosthetic arms with the sensory-enabled devices developed at the university since 2015. “People with upper-limb-loss deserve to have better technologies that can improve their lives,” said Emily Graczyk, assistant professor of biomedical engineering at Case School of Engineering and School of Medicine, and investigator at the Cleveland VA, who is leading the research. The neuroprosthesis, called iSens, uses implanted electrodes to detect muscle movement and stimulate nerves, sending touch sensations from the prosthetic fingertips to the brain. An implanted neural control device communicates with the prosthesis via Bluetooth. The four-year trial will include three phases: initial testing of current prostheses, implantation and calibration of the iSens system, and randomized use comparing touch sensation and advanced motor control. Participants will complete surveys and laboratory testing over roughly 18 months to assess function and quality of life improvements. “The significant funding allows us to complete this clinical trial that wouldn't necessarily get venture capital investment at this stage,” said Dustin Tyler, Arthur S. Holden Professor of biomedical engineering and co-investigator. Researchers hope the study will show how improved sensation and control can enhance independence, self-image, and social interaction for amputees.