Elon Musk’s Neuralink has received regulatory approval from Health Canada to conduct its first clinical trial in the country, marking a significant milestone for the neurotechnology company. Announced on Wednesday, the trial aims to evaluate a brain implant designed to allow paralyzed individuals to control digital devices simply by thinking.
The clinical trial will focus on assessing the safety and initial functionality of the implant, which is intended to assist individuals with quadriplegia—paralysis of all four limbs—in controlling external devices through thought alone. This breakthrough technology holds the promise of enhancing independence and quality of life for those affected by severe paralysis.
While Health Canada has not issued a formal statement regarding the approval, the move signifies a step forward in the field of brain-computer interface (BCI) research within Canada.
In the United States, Neuralink has already implanted devices in two patients. The first patient, Noland Arbaugh, received his implant in January and has since utilized it to play video games, browse the internet, and engage on social media. The second patient, who underwent the procedure in August and wishes to remain anonymous, has been using the device to learn 3D design and play video games.
Neuralink’s advancements in BCI technology continue to attract global attention, with potential implications for medical treatment and human-computer interaction.
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Neuralink receives Canadian approval for brain chip implant trials
cgtn.com
