Neuralink, the brain implant startup founded by Elon Musk, has received approval from an independent review board to commence human trials for its brain chip. The company is searching for individuals with paralysis to participate in a research study that will span six years and test the efficacy of its brain chip.
Neuralink’s main focus is developing a brain-machine interface that allows the connection between humans and machines by implanting devices in the brain. This groundbreaking technology aims to restore motor function in individuals with paralysis and treat brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and dementia.
Last year, Neuralink was denied fast-track approval for human trials. However, in May of this year, the FDA granted the company an investigational device exemption (IDE) for clinical studies. After months of waiting, Neuralink has now begun accepting applications for these human trials.
The company is specifically looking for patients who suffer from paralysis due to a vertical spinal cord injury or ALS. The primary objective of the study is to evaluate the safety and functionality of Neuralink’s technology. The plan is to implant a Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) in a specific area of the brain responsible for movement. Through this interface, participants will hopefully be able to control a computer cursor or a keyboard using their thoughts alone.
To date, Neuralink has conducted trials on animals. Notably, a monkey with the brain-computer interface played ping pong using only its brain, while another animal successfully learned to type messages and charge wirelessly. A pig was also shown running on a treadmill with the implanted device.
Despite these impressive demonstrations, insider reports have raised concerns about the animals’ trials, with allegations of unnecessary suffering. Former employees have come forward, describing the testing as hack jobs and recounting incidents where devices were implanted incorrectly in pigs, resulting in euthanasia. These allegations have prompted multiple investigations, including inquiries into animal abuse by the Department of Agriculture and mishandling of hazardous materials across state lines by the Department of Transportation.
As Neuralink ventures into human trials, it is essential to strike a balance between the potential benefits of their groundbreaking technology and the ethical treatment of research subjects. The results of these trials will undoubtedly shape the future of brain-machine interfaces and pave the way for innovative treatments for paralysis and other brain-related conditions.
