Neuralink Breakthrough: Human Trials and Promising Results
On Sunday, Neuralink, the brain-chip startup founded by Elon Musk, marked a significant milestone with the successful implantation of its brain-chip in the first human patient. Elon Musk shared the positive news on X, highlighting the promising results of neuron spike detection.
Last year, Neuralink received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for its groundbreaking human trial, a pivotal step in the startup’s mission to address paralysis and neurological conditions. In September, the company gained approval to commence recruitment for the human trial, employing a robot for the precise placement of a brain-computer interface (BCI) implant in the brain’s movement control region.
Neuralink’s primary goal is to empower individuals to control computer cursors or keyboards using their thoughts alone. The “ultra-fine” threads in their implants play a crucial role in transmitting signals within participants’ brains, showcasing the company’s cutting-edge technology.
Telepathy: Neuralink’s First Product
Elon Musk revealed that the inaugural product emerging will be named Telepathy, emphasizing the company’s commitment to enabling direct communication through thoughts.
Neuralink ongoing PRIME Study serves as a trial for its wireless brain-computer interface, focusing on evaluating the safety of both the implant and the surgical robot. Despite calls for scrutiny regarding safety protocols, the company has not provided further details in response to a Reuters inquiry.
The journey hasn’t been without challenges for Neuralink. The company faced a fine for violating U.S. Department of Transportation rules related to hazardous material movement. In late November, lawmakers urged the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to investigate potential misinformation by Elon Musk regarding the safety technology. Concerns were raised after veterinary records revealed issues with implants in monkeys, including paralysis, seizures, and brain swelling.
Elon Musk addressed these concerns in a social media post on September 10, stating that no monkeys had died due to a implant. He clarified the use of “terminal” monkeys to minimize risks to healthy ones. Despite these challenges, Neuralink remains at the forefront of innovation, pushing boundaries in the field of brain-chip technology.
Read More Innovation – Tech Foom
