Exciting news! Neuralink has received approval to commence recruitment for its groundbreaking PRIME Study. This study, known as the Precise Robotically Implanted Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) trial, focuses on assessing the safety of their N1 implant and R1 surgical robot. Its goal is to evaluate the initial functionality of their wireless BCI, which aims to empower individuals with paralysis to control external devices using their thoughts.
During the study, the R1 Robot will precisely place ultra-fine, flexible threads from the N1 Implant in a brain region responsible for controlling movement intention. Once implanted, the N1 Implant, which is virtually invisible, will wirelessly transmit and record brain signals to an app that deciphers movement intent. Initially, this BCI aims to grant people the ability to control a computer cursor or keyboard solely through their thoughts.
This significant step in their mission to create a universal brain interface for those with unmet medical needs is conducted under the FDA's investigational device exemption (IDE) granted in May 2023.
Individuals with quadriplegia due to cervical spinal cord injury or ALS may be eligible to participate. If you're curious about eligibility for current or future Neuralink clinical trials, consider joining their Patient Registry. This could be an opportunity to be part of cutting-edge medical research with the potential to transform lives.