Neuralink’s Third Brain Implant Recipient

Neuralink’s Third Brain Implant Recipient
Elon Musk, founder of Neuralink, announced that a third person has received a brain implant from the company. Neuralink is one of many organizations working to connect machines to the nervous system. Musk confirmed that all three human recipients of Neuralinks are experiencing positive outcomes.
Neuralink’s Device Advancements
Since its first brain implant a year ago, Neuralink has made significant upgrades to its devices. The latest implants boast more electrodes, higher bandwidth, and longer battery life. Musk expressed the company’s plans to implant the experimental devices in 20 to 30 more individuals this year.
Updates on Previous Recipients
Details regarding the third recipient remain undisclosed, but Musk provided updates on the two previous patients. The second recipient, a spinal cord injury victim, has been playing video games with the device’s assistance and has begun learning computer-aided design software. The first recipient, also with a spinal cord injury, has reported using the implant to play video games and chess.
The Burgeoning Field of Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs)
Alongside Neuralink’s efforts, numerous companies and research groups are actively pursuing BCI technologies. Two notable studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine last year showcased the effectiveness of BCIs in facilitating communication for individuals with ALS.
Key Players in BCI Research
A U.S. database of studies reveals that more than 45 trials involving brain-computer interfaces are currently underway. These endeavors aim to address various applications, including treating brain disorders and rehabilitating brain injuries. Rajesh Rao, co-director of the Center for Neurotechnology at the University of Washington, highlighted that many research labs have demonstrated the ability of humans to control computer cursors using BCIs.
Distinctive Features of Neuralink’s Approach
Rao acknowledged that Neuralink’s approach may be unique in two aspects. Firstly, the surgical implantation involves a robotic system that places flexible electrode threads into the human brain to monitor neural activity and control devices. Secondly, these threads potentially record data from more neurons than other comparable interfaces.
Advantages and Limitations of Neuralink’s Technology
Rao emphasized that the advantages of Neuralink’s methods remain to be proven, and some competitors have surpassed the company in certain areas. He pointed out that companies such as Synchron, Blackrock Neurotech, and Onward Medical are conducting BCI trials that employ less invasive or more versatile techniques that combine neural recording with stimulation.
Benefits of BCIs for Individuals with Paralysis
Marco Baptista, chief scientific officer of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, expressed the organization’s enthusiasm for BCI technology due to its potential benefits for individuals with paralysis. He acknowledged that clinical trials will determine the most effective approach and emphasized that it is premature to declare a winner.
Testing and Regulation of BCIs
Neuralink received clearance from U.S. regulators to begin human testing of its device in 2023. According to Dr. Rita Redberg, a cardiologist who studies high-risk devices, high-risk medical devices typically require an “investigational device exemption” from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before entering pre-market approval. Neuralink claims to have obtained this exemption.
Rigorous Safety Protocols for BCI Research
Redberg emphasized the FDA’s involvement throughout all stages of research, from patient recruitment to data analysis, prioritizing patient safety. She also highlighted the essential role of institutional review boards (IRBs), which review the risks and benefits of research involving human subjects. IRB members must include non-scientists and individuals not affiliated with the research institution. The purpose of IRBs is to ensure that participants are fully informed of potential risks and benefits before enrolling in studies.