Elon Musk’s brain-chip company, Neuralink, has received approval to begin recruiting participants for its first human trial of a brain implant designed for paralysis patients. The trial will focus on individuals with paralysis due to cervical spinal cord injury or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Although the exact number of participants was not disclosed, the trial is expected to take about six years. The study will involve surgically placing a brain-computer interface (BCI) implant in a region of the brain controlling movement intentions, aiming to enable control of a computer cursor or keyboard through thoughts. Initially, Neuralink aimed for 10 patients but negotiated a lower number with the FDA due to safety concerns. Musk envisions broader applications for the technology, including treating conditions like obesity, autism, depression, and schizophrenia. However, even if the BCI proves safe for human use, experts suggest it may take over a decade to secure commercial clearance.
Source – CGTN