When it comes to helping patients recover from spinal cord injuries and stroke, the use of exoskeletons – a robotic suit that supports a person's weight and helps them move their limbs – is gaining traction by physical therapists in rehabilitation centers and clinical settings. Several exoskeleton companies such as ReWalk, Ekso Bionics and Parker Hannifin are already marketing their own versions of these smart, robotic-assisted body suits in various countries worldwide. Despite facing significant barriers, such as high device cost and lack of reimbursement, recent advances in robotics, microelectronics, battery technologies and product designs are the driving forces behind the continuous innovation in this field. Companies hope the dramatic life-changing impact exoskeletons have today in helping the paralyzed will also have implications for other mobility-challenged individuals, including those living with Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy and the elderly.

Two emerging companies – Argo Medical Technologies Inc. and Ekso Bionics Inc. – are making substantial headway with robotic devices designed to help paralyzed patients regain the ability to walk.

Derived from Strategic Transactions, Elsevier Business Intelligence’s premium source for tracking life sciences deal activity, the Tech Transfers Between Academia And Industry column provides a monthly update on technology transfer deals, reporting licensing agreements between companies and universities or other research institutions within the In Vitro Diagnostics, Pharmaceuticals, and Medical Devices sectors.

A roundup of recent medtech mergers & acquisitions, strategic alliances, and financings.