Elon Musk, the visionary behind Neuralink, made a groundbreaking announcement on Monday, revealing the successful implantation of a brain-chip in the first human recipient from the innovative startup. Musk took to social media, sharing the exciting news, "The first human received an implant from @Neuralink yesterday and is recovering well."
This significant milestone comes after Neuralink obtained clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration last year to commence trials testing their implant on humans. Musk's post further emphasized, "Initial results show promising neuron spike detection."
According to details provided on Neuralink's website, the PRIME Study, an abbreviation for Precise Robotically Implanted Brain-Computer Interface, is an investigational medical device trial focusing on fully-implantable, wireless brain-computer interface technology. The study aims to evaluate the safety of the implant (N1) and surgical robot (R1), while also assessing the initial functionality of the brain-computer interface to empower individuals with paralysis to control external devices through their thoughts.
During the study, the R1 Robot will delicately place the N1 Implant's ultra-fine and flexible threads in a specific brain region responsible for movement intention. Once implanted, the N1 device, virtually invisible cosmetically, will record and transmit brain signals wirelessly to an accompanying app for decoding movement intentions. Initially, the goal is to enable individuals to manipulate a computer cursor or keyboard solely through their thoughts.
The PRIME Study, operating under an investigational device exemption granted by the FDA in May 2023, marks a pivotal step forward in Neuralink's mission to develop a universal brain interface to restore autonomy to those with unmet medical needs.
Despite this remarkable progress, Musk and Neuralink have encountered significant criticism, particularly regarding their earlier trials involving brain chips on laboratory animals. Allegations surfaced, with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine filing a complaint in February 2022, citing invasive and deadly brain experiments. By December of the same year, federal authorities initiated an investigation into potential violations of animal welfare standards, revealing documents indicating the deaths of approximately 1,500 animals since 2018, including rats, monkeys, pigs, and mice.
Neuralink staunchly defended itself against these accusations, asserting that the care and treatment of the rhesus macaque monkeys under its supervision were handled with utmost respect and reverence by the team.
Post a Comment
0Comments