Paralyzed Woman Regains Speech Through AI Breakthrough After 18 Years
A pioneering breakthrough in artificial intelligence (AI) has enabled a severely paralyzed woman to speak again for the first time in 18 years. Thanks to a groundbreaking brain implant technology developed at the University of California (UC), the patient, known as Ann, can now communicate through a human-like digital avatar on a screen.
The research, published in the journal Nature, details the innovative system that connects the brain implant to computers, allowing Ann’s brain signals to be decoded and transformed into synthesized speech. The digital avatar not only speaks the words but also recreates natural facial movements, enhancing the sense of a genuine conversation.
The ultimate goal of the UC scientists is to develop a FDA-approved system that would enable cognizant individuals like Ann, who are physically unable to speak, to communicate more naturally and in real-time. Dr. Edward Chang, chair of neurological surgery at UC San Francisco (UCSF) and a study author, explains, Our goal is to restore a full, embodied way of communicating, which is the most natural way for us to talk with others.
Ann’s journey began 18 years ago when she suffered a severe brainstem stroke at the age of 30, leaving her completely paralyzed. Despite years of rehabilitation and regaining some control over facial muscles, Ann has been unable to speak. However, after learning about the research conducted by Dr. Chang and his team, she decided to participate in the study.
The research initially focused on translating brain signals into text, as seen in the case of another stroke survivor named Pancho. However, for Ann, the scientists went a step further and successfully decoded her brain signals into synthesized speech, along with accompanying facial movements simulated by the avatar.
The process involved implanting over 250 electrodes on the surface of Ann’s brain, specifically targeting the speech-related region. These electrodes intercepted the brain signals produced when Ann attempted to speak. Through weeks of training with an AI system, Ann’s unique speech brain signals were recognized and decoded into text. Currently, the UC team’s system can decode brain signals into speech at a rate of nearly 80 words per minute, a significant improvement compared to Ann’s previous text-based communication system.
To make the synthesized speech more personalized, the AI system analyzed footage of a wedding speech Ann gave in 2005 to recreate her own voice for the avatar. The AI technology also utilizes the brain signals to simulate facial movements, compensating for the severed connections between Ann’s brain and vocal tract caused by the stroke.
The next step for the research team is to develop a wireless version of the system, allowing Ann to communicate without being physically connected to computers. A wireless system would significantly enhance Ann’s independence and social interactions, providing her the freedom to control her own devices.
Participating in this cutting-edge research has been life-changing for Ann, who now feels a sense of purpose and contribution to society. She describes the study as an opportunity to truly live while she’s still alive. The advancements made by Dr. Chang and his team bring hope to individuals like Ann, presenting the possibility of restoring natural communication for those who have lost their voice due to physical limitations.
As this pioneering research continues, people around the world eagerly anticipate the development of this groundbreaking technology that could transform the lives of individuals affected by severe paralysis. The potential of AI to restore the fundamental human ability to communicate serves as a beacon of hope for a future where technology bridges the gaps between physical limitations and the desire for connection.
