Elon Musk's audacious venture, Neuralink, has once again secured FDA approval, paving the way for a second person to participate in human trials of their revolutionary brain implant. This follows the emotional revelations from the initial participant, who has experienced over 100 days with the implant.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) greenlit Neuralink to implant its brain-computer interface (BCI) in another patient. According to a Wall Street Journal report, the company aims to expand this trial to 10 people by the end of the year. This marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of Musk's vision to restore autonomy to those with quadriplegia.
What is Neuralink's BCI?
At its core, Neuralink's BCI is a sophisticated chip designed to integrate directly with the brain. This technological marvel promises to offer unprecedented control of external devices through mere thought. Though the technology is still in its nascent stages, the enthusiasm surrounding its potential has led to more than 100 quadriplegic individuals registering their interest in joining the trial.
Neuralink's initial clinical trial, named the PRIME Study, focuses on evaluating the safety of the implant and the surgical robot used for installation. The trial also assesses the BCI's basic functionality in empowering quadriplegic users to control devices with their minds. However, Neuralink cautiously states, 'We do not guarantee any benefit by participating in the PRIME Study'.
The First Patient's Journey
Noland Arbaugh, the first-ever recipient of the Neuralink implant, spoke candidly about his experience since receiving the device in January. Arbaugh, who became quadriplegic following a tragic accident, hopes this technology will unlock new ways for him to support himself and his family.
Describing the implant, Arbaugh explains it as a quarter-sized chip with 64 threads, each containing 32 electrodes, that capture and transmit signals from nearby neurons to a computer via Bluetooth. Before the implant, Arbaugh relied on a stylus held in his mouth to interact with devices. The BCI's introduction has redefined these interactions, making tasks easier and more intuitive.
The Road Ahead
Neuralink received FDA approval for its first human implant last May and commenced recruiting for the PRIME clinical trial in September. The company's ambitious plans include implanting the BCI in 10 individuals by the year's end. Interested candidates can apply through Neuralink's patient registry on their website.
As the world watches, Musk's Neuralink continues to blur the lines between science fiction and reality. From enabling quadriplegics to fostering mind-to-computer communication, the possibilities seem boundless.
For a deeper dive into Arbaugh's journey and the emotional weight of his experience, you can check out his interview on Project Unity's YouTube channel.