An individual identified as RJ has received a brain implant at the UHealth Tower, the flagship hospital of the University of Miami Health System. This is part of a clinical trial assessing the technology developed by Neuralink, a company co-founded by Elon Musk. RJ, a military veteran left paralyzed after a motorcycle accident, is one of only seven people in the United States to have undergone this procedure thus far.
The surgery took place in April, marking RJ as the first participant in the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis at the University of Miami's (UM) School of Medicine. Selected as the nation's second center to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the device, the chip, known as the Link or Telepathy, was implanted by surgeons from the Miller School of Medicine. Approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the procedure aims to determine if individuals with paralysis can use their minds to wirelessly control computers, smartphones, and other electronic devices.
The operation involved a Neuralink surgical robot that inserted over 60 ultra-thin, flexible threads into the brain's movement control area. According to the Miami Herald, Dr. Jonathan Jagid, the principal investigator of the trial, stated that the surgery was "perfect," and RJ was discharged the following day.
The outcomes have been promising so far. A video released by the university shows RJ playing video games using only his mind, without any wires or controllers. "They're bringing back my spark... my drive. They've given me back my purpose," RJ said in a statement.
Elon Musk emphasized in late June their commitment to patient safety, noting that there have been no failures in any cases. "We are very cautious with Neuralink in humans," he remarked.
The Telepathy trial is seeking volunteers aged 22 to 75 who suffer from paralysis in both hands due to cervical spinal cord injuries or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a currently incurable neurodegenerative disease. The involvement of the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, founded by Marc Buoniconti, is a significant milestone in researching therapies for individuals with motor disabilities. Marc, who became quadriplegic in 1985, has dedicated his life to advancing this field of research.
Beyond screen control and video gaming, Neuralink is investigating the chip's potential to operate robotic arms and other assistive tools. The company claims that their software translates brain signals into digital commands, enabling actions such as moving a cursor or turning on a television.
"I think my favorite thing is being able to turn on the TV, like it's the first time in two and a half years," said RJ during a video call with other trial participants. He also demonstrated playing Call of Duty and Mario Kart using solely his mind.
Understanding Neuralink's Brain Implant Trial
What is the purpose of Neuralink's brain implant trial?
The trial aims to test the safety and efficacy of Neuralink's brain implant in helping people with paralysis control electronic devices using their minds.
Who is eligible to participate in the Telepathy trial?
Volunteers aged between 22 and 75 who have paralysis in both hands due to cervical spinal cord injuries or ALS are eligible for the trial.
How does the Neuralink implant work?
The implant uses ultra-thin threads to connect with the brain's movement area, allowing the user to control devices wirelessly by translating brain signals into digital commands.