Neuralink, Elon Musk’s brain chip startup, announced on Wednesday that it has received approval to begin its first clinical trial in Canada. The device is designed to enable paralyzed individuals to control digital devices through thought alone.
The Canadian study will focus on evaluating the safety and initial functionality of the implant, which is aimed at helping people with quadriplegia—paralysis affecting all four limbs—control external devices mentally.
Toronto’s University Health Network hospital confirmed in a separate statement that it has been chosen to carry out the complex neurosurgical procedure. Health Canada, the regulating body, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
In the United States, Neuralink has already implanted the device in two patients. According to the company, the device is performing well in the second trial patient, who has been using it for activities like playing video games and designing 3D objects.
Founded in 2016 by Musk and a team of engineers, Neuralink is also developing a brain chip interface intended to be implanted within the skull. This technology could potentially help disabled patients regain movement, communication, and even vision.
Earlier in September, Neuralink received the “breakthrough device” designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for its experimental implant designed to restore vision.
Source: Reuters
