Elon Musk's Company Neuralink Seeks Three Patients For A Long Term Brain Implant Study
Neuralink, the brain-chip company founded by Elon Musk, is seeking three patients to participate in a long-term study evaluating its brain-computer interface (BCI) device. This device is designed to enable paralyzed individuals to control digital devices through thought-alone access. The study, detailed in the United States government”s clinical trials database, is anticipated to span several years. Initially, Neuralink aimed to enrol ten patients when it sought approval from US regulators to commence clinical trials last year.
The company”s brain implant targets assisting those with spinal cord injuries by facilitating interaction with digital devices via mental commands. Neuralink has garnered significant interest from potential patients for years, even before receiving clearance to start human trials last year, according to sources cited by Reuters. The study involves the surgical placement of a BCI implant into the brain region responsible for movement intention, utilizing a robot for precision.
The study is projected to have a primary completion date in 2026, with the entire study concluding in 2031. Participants will include individuals aged 22 to 75 who suffer from conditions such as quadriplegia and the eligibility requirements stipulate that candidates must have experienced limited mobility for at least one year and possess a life expectancy of at least 12 months.
Additionally, they have very limited or no movement in their hands, wrists, and arms due to spinal cord injuries or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The “first-in-human early feasibility study” commenced in January, according to details posted on the clinical trials registry. Although such studies are not registered to post-trial details on the US National Institutes of Health”s ClinicalTrials.gov website, registration is often a prerequisite for publication in major medical journals.
In January, Neuralink implanted the device in Noland Arbaugh, who was paralyzed from the shoulders down following a diving accident in 2016. According to company blog posts and videos, the device has enabled Arbaugh to engage in activities like playing video games, browsing the internet, and moving a computer cursor on his laptop using only his thoughts. For further information on eligibility and study details, interested individuals can refer to the US clinical trials database or Neuralink”s official communications.
