What can Elon Musk’s Neuralink implants be used for? First patient update
The man more known for Tesla, Space-X and buying up Twitter has seen an important step taken in his plan to wirelessly connect human brains with devices.
In a groundbreaking development, the brain-chip startup Neuralink, founded by tech mogul Elon Musk, marked a significant milestone by successfully implanting its first device into a human patient. Now, Neuralink has presented the quadriplegic subject, who can control a computer and play chess through his thoughts.
READ ALSO: Neuralink to give update on brain-chip implant in human trials
What are neuron spikes?
Neuron spikes, as described by the National Institute of Health, represent the activity of cells using electrical and chemical signals to transmit information within the brain and to the body. Musk has highlighted the positive outcomes of the implant, opening doors to a realm of possibilities in the field of neurotechnology.
Last year, Neuralink received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to embark on its first human trial, a pivotal step in the company’s mission to address paralysis and various neurological conditions. The trial, utilizing a brain-computer interface (BCI) implant, aims to empower individuals to control computer cursors or keyboards solely through their thoughts.
Neuralink ‘enables control of phone just by thinking’ - Musk
Neuralink’s innovative approach involves the use of “ultra-fine” threads in the implants to facilitate the transmission of signals within participants’ brains. Musk has dubbed the first product from Neuralink as “Telepathy,” hinting at the potential for direct communication through the brain-computer interface.
The ongoing PRIME Study, which involves a wireless brain-computer interface, serves as a crucial trial to assess the safety of the implant and the surgical robot employed in the procedure. Neuralink’s trajectory in advancing neurotechnology remains a subject of keen interest. The next step for Neuralink is “Blindsight”, which aims to give vision to a person who was born blind.
Questions over Neuralink safety and monkey trials
However, Neuralink has not been immune to scrutiny, facing questions about safety protocols. In January, Reuters reported that the company was fined for violating U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) rules on the transportation of hazardous materials. Moreover, concerns arose following reports of issues with implants in monkeys, including paralysis, seizures, and brain swelling.
Amidst these challenges, Neuralink has maintained its commitment to transparency. Musk asserted on social media in September that “no monkey has died as a result of a Neuralink implant.” He clarified that the company selected “terminal” monkeys to minimize risks to healthy ones.
Clearly there is much excitement around the type of brain-chip technology being developed. Along with recent advances in areas such as artificial intelligence, there is a feeling that what used to just be in science fiction stories is now becoming a reality. These innovations could prove transformative in aspects of healthcare, neuroscience, and human-machine interfaces, but safeguards must be aligned to ensure bad actors are kept at bay.