Neuralink’s primary objective is to empower individuals to manipulate a computer cursor or keyboard solely through their thoughts.
Elon Musk’s brain-chip venture, Neuralink, announced on Tuesday that it has received the green light from an independent review board to commence recruitment for the inaugural human trial of its brain implant designed to assist individuals with paralysis.
The trial will target individuals experiencing paralysis due to cervical spinal cord injury or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). While the company did not disclose the exact number of participants, the trial is anticipated to span approximately six years.
To facilitate the study, a robot will be employed to surgically implant a brain-computer interface (BCI) in a region of the brain responsible for controlling the intention to move. Neuralink’s primary objective is to empower individuals to manipulate a computer cursor or keyboard solely through their thoughts.
Previously, the company aimed to gain approval for implanting its device in ten patients. However, discussions with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) led to a reconsideration of the patient count due to safety concerns raised by the agency. The final number of approved patients by the FDA remains undisclosed.
Elon Musk envisions Neuralink as a catalyst for swift surgical insertions of its chip devices to address conditions like obesity, autism, depression, and schizophrenia.
In May, Neuralink brain chip disclosed that it had obtained FDA clearance for its first-in-human clinical trial, a development that occurred amid ongoing federal scrutiny regarding the company’s handling of animal testing.
Even if the BCI device proves to be safe for human application, experts suggest that it may take over a decade for the startup to secure commercial clearance for widespread use. This timeline accounts for the rigorous regulatory processes involved in medical device approvals.
Neuralink’s pursuit of developing innovative solutions for individuals with paralysis holds immense promise for the future of medical technology. As the trial commences, the world watches with anticipation, recognizing the potential for groundbreaking advancements in the field of neurotechnology.