Neuralink Celebrates Milestone as First Human Receives Brain-Chip Implant

Neuralink, the brain-chip startup founded by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, successfully implanted its first brain-chip in a human patient on Sunday.

Elon Musk confirmed the positive progress, stating that the recipient is currently in recovery.

Musk shared these updates through a post on the social media platform X, where he also mentioned promising results indicating the detection of neuron spikes.

Neurons, as described by the National Institute of Health, are cells that utilize electrical and chemical signals to transmit information within the brain and to the rest of the body.

Neuralink's innovative brain-chip aims to address paralysis and various neurological conditions, and the recent implantation marks a significant achievement following the clearance granted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration last year.

In September, Neuralink received approval to commence recruitment for its human trial.

The study involves the use of a robotic system to precisely place a brain-computer interface (BCI) implant in a specific brain region controlling the intention to move.

The initial objective of this technology is to empower individuals to operate a computer cursor or keyboard solely through their thoughts.

Neuralink utilizes "ultra-fine" threads in their implants to facilitate the transmission of signals within participants' brains.

Elon Musk revealed that the first product resulting from Neuralink's endeavors will be named Telepathy, emphasizing the company's vision of creating a direct interface between the human brain and external devices.

The ongoing PRIME Study by Neuralink serves as a crucial trial for their wireless brain-computer interface, evaluating the safety of both the implant and the surgical robot used in the procedure.

Despite a request for additional details by Reuters, Neuralink has yet to provide a response at the time of reporting.

The successful implantation of the brain-chip in the first human patient signifies a major step forward in Neuralink's mission to revolutionize the field of neurotechnology.

Source: Akash Sriram and Kanjyik Ghosh / Reuters