Scientists have succeeded in restoring basic cellular activity in pigs’ brains hours after their deaths in a finding that may one day lead to advances in treating human stroke and brain injuries.

The researchers, from Yale University in the US, emphasised that their work did not even come close to reawakening consciousness in the disembodied pig brains.

In fact, the experiment was specifically designed to avoid such an outcome, however improbable.

The research grew out of efforts to enhance the study of brain development, disorders and evolution.