Led by Philippe Menasche, head of the coronary unit at the George Pompidou Hospital, it is hoped the doctor can regenerate the former F1 driver’s entire central nervous system. The F1 legend suffered a serious head injury while skiing on January 29, 2013 and was placed in a medically induced coma.
The status of the former F1 driver has been a tightly kept secret but according to reports from Spanish publication 20minutos, Schumacher is undergoing surgery to transfer cells from his heart to the brain.
Mr Menasche was previously accused of using the F1 legend as an experiment rather than a patient to operate on.
But the professor at the University of Alabama and leader of the National Institute for Medical and Health research hit back and said: “There was great attention to our department, but it has already returned to normal.
“There has been great progress in the last 20 years, but the truth is that we still know little.”
Such is the development of Schumacher, French newspaper Le Parisien reported the F1 legend is “aware” of his surroundings.
Sunday marked the six-year anniversary of Schumacher’s injury and earlier this month, his wife Corinna issued a message to his fans.
Ahead of the launch of the ‘KeepFightingMichael’ social media page, Corinna issued a heartwarming message.
She said: “Big things start with small steps.
“Many small particles can form a huge mosaic.
“Together you are stronger, and that is exactly how combined forces of the KeepFighting movement make it easier to encourage others.”
Former Ferrari boss and friend of the race, Jean Todt also provided an update on Schumacher’s health.
Speaking to Radio Monte-Carlo this month, Mr Todt said the F1 legend continued to “keep fighting”.
He also said: “I’m always careful with such statements, but it’s true.
“I saw the race together with Michael Schumacher at his home in Switzerland.
“Michael is in the best hands and is well looked after in his house.
“He does not give up and keeps fighting.”
Mr Todt also spoke of their relationship and the strain his condition has put on his family.
He added: “His family is fighting just as much and of course our friendship can not be the same as it once was.
“Just because there’s no longer the same communication as before.
“He continues to fight. And his family is fighting the same way.”
Additional reporting by Maria Ortega.