Neuralink, Receives Approval for Human Trials of Paralysis Treatment

Neuralink, Elon Musk's brain-chip startup, has announced that it has received approval from an independent review board to commence the first human trial of its brain implant for paralysis patients.

Credits: REUTERS

The trial will focus on individuals with paralysis caused by cervical spinal cord injury or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. While the exact number of participants has not been disclosed, the trial is expected to span six years.

During the trial, a robot will be used to surgically implant a brain-computer interface (BCI) in the region of the brain responsible for controlling movement. Neuralink's initial objective is to enable participants to control a computer cursor or keyboard using their thoughts alone.

The company had initially aimed to implant its device in 10 patients, but negotiations with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) resulted in a lower number due to safety concerns.

Elon Musk envisions Neuralink as a platform that can address various conditions, including obesity, autism, depression and schizophrenia. However, even if the BCI device proves to be safe for human use, it may take more than a decade to obtain commercial use clearance.

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• Neuralink, Elon Musk's brain-chip startup, has received approval to begin the first human trial of its brain implant for paralysis patients.

• The trial will focus on individuals with paralysis caused by cervical spinal cord injury or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

• A robot will be used to surgically implant a brain-computer interface (BCI) in the region of the brain responsible for movement control.

• The initial goal is to enable participants to control a computer cursor or keyboard using their thoughts.

Source: Reuters