Paradromics tests brain implant in human during 20-minute surgery

Paradromics, a neurotech company, recently made waves in the medical field by successfully implanting its brain-computer interface (BCI) in a human for the first time. The groundbreaking procedure took place at the University of Michigan during a routine epilepsy surgery. What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that the device was both implanted and removed in just about 20 minutes, showcasing the efficiency and safety of the technology.

Paradromics has been dedicated to developing this brain implant technology for nearly a decade, and this milestone signifies a significant step forward in their journey. The successful implantation of the BCI demonstrates that the system can be safely embedded in the brain and effectively record neural activity. With this accomplishment, Paradromics is transitioning from research to clinical trials, with the aim of testing the long-term safety and usability of their device in real-world settings.

A brain-computer interface, such as Paradromics’ Connexus, is a device that reads brain signals and translates them into commands for computers or other devices. The Connexus BCI is specifically designed to assist individuals with severe movement impairments, such as those caused by paralysis, in communicating by using their thoughts to control a computer.

The Connexus BCI stands out due to its durability and advanced features. It incorporates 421 microelectrodes, each thinner than a human hair, allowing the device to capture signals from individual brain cells with exceptional precision. These electrodes are housed in a body made from titanium and platinum-iridium, ensuring the device’s safety and compatibility with the human body for long-term use.

The process of transforming brain activity into digital actions through the Connexus BCI involves several steps, including implanting the device, capturing brain signals with electrodes, sending data to a chest device, wirelessly transmitting the information to a computer or smartphone, and translating the user’s neural activity into speech, text, or digital commands.

The team behind this groundbreaking procedure, led by Dr. Oren Sagher and Dr. Matthew Willsey at the University of Michigan, consists of both medical professionals and engineers, ensuring the successful and safe implantation of the device. Dr. Willsey highlighted the advanced features of the Paradromics device, emphasizing its ability to capture detailed brain activity with its multitude of sensors.

Paradromics faces competition from other neurotech companies like Neuralink, Synchron, and Precision Neuroscience, each with their own approach to brain-computer interfaces. Paradromics’ focus on recording activity from individual brain cells sets it apart, potentially offering more natural communication for individuals with paralysis.

The company has raised significant funding and partnered with organizations like Saudi Arabia’s NEOM, positioning itself for further advancements in the field. Paradromics plans to initiate a clinical trial later this year for individuals with severe movement impairments, aiming to help them communicate independently using digital devices.

In conclusion, Paradromics’ successful human implantation of their brain-computer interface represents a major milestone in neurotechnology. As the company and others continue to innovate and push boundaries, the future looks promising for individuals with severe motor impairments. The ability to communicate and interact with the world using thoughts and technology is rapidly becoming a reality, ushering in a new era of possibilities for those in need.