Elon Musk’s Neuralink startup has embarked on a groundbreaking journey to recruit participants for its first clinical human trials, which will involve the use of surgically implanted brain chips. This innovative endeavor aims to empower paraplegics by allowing them to control external devices through their thoughts.
The initiative, known as the “PRIME study,” is dedicated to enabling individuals with paralysis in all four limbs to regain some control over their lives. Neuralink specifically seeks individuals who have quadriplegia due to cervical spinal cord injuries or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to participate in this groundbreaking research.
While the potential benefits are immense, it’s important to note that the procedure will be invasive. Participants in the trial will undergo surgery involving the use of a robot to implant Neuralink’s N1 implant into the region of the brain responsible for controlling movement intention. This implant is equipped with 64 fine threads containing 1,024 electrodes, allowing it to record and transmit brain activity.
Remarkably, the N1 implant, although roughly the size of a large coin, remains inconspicuous once in place. Neuralink assures potential participants that the implant is cosmetically invisible and designed to wirelessly transmit brain signals to an app capable of decoding movement intentions. Initially, the primary goal of this brain-computer interface (BCI) is to grant individuals the remarkable ability to control a computer cursor or keyboard using only their thoughts.
This ambitious trial is projected to span six years, offering participants an extended opportunity to explore the potential of this groundbreaking technology. With the implant successfully in place, users will interact with a specially designed company app that deciphers their brain activity, allowing them to control computer devices effortlessly.
Despite initial concerns following allegations of medical supply mishandling, Neuralink has received FDA approval to conduct these clinical human trials. Individuals interested in participating can register through Neuralink’s official website, marking a significant step forward in the quest to harness the power of the human mind to improve the lives of those with severe physical limitations.
Reference
https://www.pcmag.com/news/elon-musks-neuralink-puts-out-call-for-humans-to-try-its-brain-implant
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