Neuralink, the brain implant startup founded by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, has received approval from an independent review board to start the first human trial for its brain implant aimed at treating paralysis patients.
The trial, slated to span approximately six years, will focus on individuals suffering from paralysis due to cervical spinal cord injuries or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
However, Neuralink is yet to disclose the number of participants to be included in the study.
The implant, known as a brain-computer interface (BCI), will be surgically inserted into the brain area responsible for movement intentions by a robot.
Neuralink's preliminary goal is to enable subjects to operate a computer cursor or keyboard solely with their thoughts. Previously, the company had planned to seek approval for implanting the device in 10 patients but had to negotiate a lesser number owing to safety concerns raised by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Beyond the current trial, Musk envisions expansive applications for Neuralink, including treatments for conditions such as obesity, autism and depression.
Neuralink had received FDA clearance for its first-in-human clinical trial in May, amidst federal scrutiny over its animal testing procedures. Experts indicate that even if the BCI proves safe, obtaining commercial clearance could take over a decade.