The objectives of this research is to create the scientific infrastructure for the development of a new, novel, high-performance neuroprosthetic technology in the area of electrical stimulation of the extremities. To do this the investigator will: 1) determine the dynamic performance of various skeletal muscles; 2) investigate the use of the EMG as a force feedback signal in a closed-loop control system; 3) study the relationships of the agonist and antagonist muscles for use in a push -pull stimulation scheme; and 4) implement a synergistic control system using muscle stimulation on an animal model. The significance of the development of such technological infrastructure is the potential ability to provide individuals who become paralyzed after spinal cord injury with the ability to function independently under voluntary control using fully implantable neuroprosthetic stimulators. These stimulators will allow individuals to walk, in cases of paraplegia, or to use their arms, in cases of quadriplegia.
