All articles tagged with #neural implant
A single 253‑electrode implanted array can simultaneously decode intended speech and gestures, translating them into on‑screen text and driving a personalized animated avatar within seconds. In a two‑participant study, the AI‑assisted system tackles overlapping neural signals to enable real‑time, multimodal communication for people with paralysis, signaling a step toward multifunctional neural prostheses for daily use.
A 68-year-old Michigan woman with a paralyzing neurological disorder used Paradromics’ wireless brain implant to converse in real time, even when she only imagined speaking, as brain signals are decoded by AI and spoken aloud by a computer, letting her talk on the phone with grandchildren and marking a notable advance in brain-computer interfaces.
Coherence Neuro, a San Francisco biotech tied to Neuralink, began testing a coin-sized brain implant by placing it temporarily in three patients undergoing brain-tumor surgery in Australia to sense tumor electrical activity and deliver mild stimulation aimed at slowing growth. The 30-minute implants, used as a safety check before longer-term use, could enable continuous monitoring and remote adjustment via an app, with plans for a permanent implant trial in glioblastoma patients next year, potentially offering a more convenient alternative to existing devices like Optune.
Kennady Schneider, 19, who has a difficult-to-treat form of epilepsy, became the youngest person in Colorado to receive deep-brain stimulation for epilepsy. The treatment involves implanting small electrodes into selected parts of the brain, and has resulted in fewer and less intense seizures for Kennady. While the treatment may not stop her seizures altogether, it has given her hope for a better quality of life and the ability to pursue her immediate goals, such as learning to swim and living independently.
Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a transparent graphene-based neural implant that can record electrical and calcium activity in deep brain layers, overcoming previous implant limitations. The implant's high-density array of tiny graphene electrodes allows for simultaneous recording of neural activity and optical imaging, revolutionizing neuroscience research. The technology, tested in transgenic mice, aims to provide high-resolution data about deep neural activity and could lead to the development of minimally invasive brain-computer interfaces for studying brain function.
Researchers at Duke University have developed a speech prosthetic that can translate brain signals into spoken words, offering hope for individuals with speech-impairing neurological disorders. The device uses high-density sensors and machine learning to convert brain activity related to speech into actual words. In initial trials, the device achieved a 40% accuracy in decoding spoken data. The team is also working on developing a cordless version of the device for greater user freedom. While there is still progress to be made, this technology shows promise in helping individuals regain the ability to communicate through a brain-computer interface.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge have developed a neural implant that combines flexible electronics and human stem cells to improve the connection between the brain and paralyzed limbs. The device prevents scar tissue formation and improves functionality and sensitivity. While the device has only been tested on rats, it shows promise for amputees or those who have lost function of a limb or limbs. The researchers are now working to optimize the devices and improve their scalability.