Neuralink Breakthrough: Elon Musk's Brain-Chip Implant Achieves Milestone in Human Trial

Elon Musk's Neuralink achieves a major milestone by successfully implanting a brain chip in a human, marking progress in its PRIME Study. The trial aims to assess safety and functionality, allowing paralyzed individuals to control devices through thoughts. However, the controversial experiment faces criticism for prior animal testing ethics.

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In a groundbreaking development, entrepreneur Elon Musk's startup, Neuralink, has accomplished the first-ever human brain-chip implant. Musk shared the news on social media, reporting successful implantation and promising neuron spike detection. Neuralink received FDA approval for its human trial and clearance from an independent review board.

The PRIME Study, an investigational medical device trial, focuses on evaluating the safety and functionality of Neuralink's Precise Robotically Implanted Brain-Computer Interface (BCI). This fully implantable, wireless BCI aims to empower paralyzed individuals to control external devices through their thoughts. The trial employs the R1 surgical robot to position the ultra-fine N1 Implant threads in the brain region responsible for movement intention.

The primary goal is to wirelessly record and transmit brain signals, enabling individuals to control a computer cursor or keyboard solely through their thoughts. The study is conducted under an Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) granted by the FDA in May 2023, representing a significant step in creating a generalized brain interface for medical needs.

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Despite the achievement, Neuralink faces criticism for prior "brain chips" trials on lab animals. The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine filed a complaint in 2022, accusing the company of invasive and deadly brain experiments. An investigation initiated in December 2022 revealed alleged breaches of animal welfare standards, with Neuralink countering that their care of rhesus macaque monkeys was respectful and honorable.

In conclusion, Neuralink's breakthrough in human brain-chip implantation marks a pivotal moment in advancing brain-computer interface technology. However, ethical concerns and past controversies underscore the challenges in pushing the boundaries of neurotechnology.