Neuralink, the brain technology company founded by Elon Musk on Monday, announced that it has received approval to begin a new feasibility study. This study will focus on its brain implant technology, alongside an experimental robotic arm.
Purpose of the PRIME Study
The new study is part of the ongoing PRIME trial, which aims to assess the safety of Neuralink’s wireless brain-computer interface and surgical robot. The study specifically focuses on how the implant can help patients with quadriplegia, a type of paralysis, control external devices through their thoughts.
Patient Recruitment Plans
Neuralink plans to recruit participants for the feasibility study from the current PRIME trial. The company shared this update in a post on social media platform X. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Neuralink have not yet shared further details on the study, the company is moving forward with its plans.
Progress in Canada
In addition to U.S. trials, Neuralink received approval from Health Canada last week to launch a similar trial in Canada. The company, in collaboration with Canadian neurosurgeons, has been authorized to recruit six patients with paralysis for the study.
Success in U.S. Trials
In the United States, Neuralink has already implanted its device in two patients. The first patient has successfully used the device to play video games, browse the internet, post on social media, and move a cursor on a laptop. The second patient has also shown progress, using the device to play video games and design 3D objects. Neuralink reports that both trials are progressing well, with the device functioning as expected.