Technology
Elon Musk initiates clinical trial for brain-implanted computer chips
Elon Musk stood next to the surgical robot at a Neuralink conference in 2020.
Los Angeles: Neuralink, the brainchild of tech entrepreneur Elon Musk, has announced a groundbreaking development in the realm of human-machine interface technology.
The company is set to embark on its first clinical trial involving the implantation of a computer chip directly into the human brain.
Neuralink has gained approval from an independent review board to commence recruiting patients for this remarkable human trial.
The experiment aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the experimental device, a project that has been in development for the past six years.
Last year, Neuralink faced a setback when the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) initially denied permission for the implantation of a computer chip in the human brain.
However, in a surprising turn of events, the FDA granted approval for clinical trials to commence in May 2023.
According to a statement released by Neuralink, the clinical trial will primarily involve individuals who have experienced disabilities due to spinal cord injuries or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
Participants will undergo a surgical procedure to implant a chip into the region of their brain responsible for controlling body movements.
This innovative technology will enable them to manipulate a computer cursor or keyboard using their thoughts alone.
While the exact number of trial participants remains undisclosed, Neuralink had previously revealed its plan to implant coin-sized computers into the brains of human patients back in December 2022.
Neuralink made headlines in 2021 when it demonstrated the device's capabilities by implanting it in a monkey, allowing the primate to engage in computer games solely through thought control.
It is worth noting that Neuralink's experiments on animals have drawn scrutiny from the US government, prompting an ongoing investigation into the company's activities.