Science & Technology

USAF working on 'Wolverine' healing powers

By T.K. Randall
February 22, 2021

Image: Soldiers Training in Iraq
Credit: Petty Officer 2nd Class Kim Smith / (PD) U.S. Navy Keen to give the military every possible advantage, the US Air Force - along with scientists at the University of Michigan - are working on a futuristic way of expediting healing following an injury.

Known as cellular reprogramming, the technique works by modifying cells using proteins known as transcription factors which "regulate activities such as cell division and growth."

The treatment can be applied to a wound in the form of a spray-on bandage that could, for example, convert exposed muscle into surface skin cells, healing the wound much more quickly.

"There are amazing opportunities in the United States, that you don't see in the rest of the world, to humanize science and meet critical needs in medicine," said research leader Dr. Indika Rajapakse."We have the resources to do this, and it is our obligation to take full advantage of them. Thanks to the Air Force's help, I was able to acquire the tools I need to advance my research into cellular reprogramming and wound healing."

Some have likened the new technology to Wolverine's accelerated healing in the X-Men movies.

"The impact of this research effort can be far reaching," said 711th Human Performance Wing chief scientist Dr. Rajesh Naik. "The convergence of biosciences with mathematical models can truly provide an inflection point to advance the development of wound healing."

"Dr. Rajapakse's research can result in innovative solutions for addressing our needs in the aeromedical operations and in future space environments."

Source: Mail Online

Tags: Healing, Wolverine