Neuralink, the brain-chip startup led by billionaire Elon Musk, has successfully implanted its first brain-computer interface (BCI) into a human patient. According to Musk, the patient is recovering well, and initial results show promising neuron spike detection. Neuron spikes refer to the activity of neurons, which transmit information throughout the brain and body using electrical and chemical signals.
This significant step follows the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s approval last year for Neuralink to conduct human trials. The company’s PRIME Study aims to evaluate the safety of its wireless BCI and the surgical robot used for implantation. Neuralink’s technology involves “ultra-fine” threads transmitting signals in the brain, with the initial goal of enabling people to control computers using their thoughts alone.
Despite the milestone, Neuralink faces scrutiny over safety. Earlier this month, the company was fined for violating U.S. Department of Transportation rules on hazardous materials movement. Additionally, concerns were raised about the safety of Neuralink’s technology after reports of adverse effects in animal trials, including paralysis, seizures, and brain swelling. Musk has defended the company’s practices, stating that no monkey has died due to Neuralink implants and that “terminal” monkeys were used to minimize risks.
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