| Written by MERYEM EL MAHI ALAOUI
| Researched by RAÚL MARIS
Neuralink, founded by Elon Musk, aims to revolutionize brain-machine interfaces through its wireless and implantable N1 product. This device, powered by a battery and utilizing the Bluetooth protocol, seeks to restore functionality to individuals with severed brain-body connections. On top of that, by developing a bidirectional and high-bandwidth interface between the brain and external devices, Neuralink aims to enhance human capabilities and address neurological disorders and brain injuries.
In 2016, Neuralink introduced Link, a brain-computer interface (BCI) implant that connects the brain's surface to external electronics using electrode-loaded computer chips. Elon Musk envisions various therapeutic applications for this product, including treating blindness, paralysis, and depression. Ultimately, Neuralink aims to create a device that can link human minds to supercomputers, enabling individuals to keep pace with artificial intelligence.
Neuralink's N1 product not only focuses on restoring functionality but also aims to restore vision to those who have lost their optic nerve. By assimilating neurons in the visual cortex, Neuralink seeks to create a visual prosthesis that can bypass the eye and directly create visual images in the brain. This groundbreaking technology could significantly improve the lives of individuals with visual impairments.
Neuralink's core technology involves inserting tiny, flexible electrode arrays called "neural threads" into the brain. These electrodes can record neural activity and stimulate brain parts with minimal collateral tissue damage. Musk describes the neural lace as a "digital layer above the cortex" that can be implanted through an artery or vein, reducing the need for extensive surgery. Additionally, Neuralink aims to extract and save thoughts, acting as a "backup drive for your non-physical being, your digital soul."
Neuralink has developed a surgical robot called R1 that is designed for safely implanting their devices. This robot can manipulate tiny threads, just a few red blood cells wide, and reliably insert them into a moving brain while avoiding vasculature. The system involves inserting thin probes into the brain, performing the procedures with the neurosurgical robot, and using a high-density electronic system to process information from neurons. This innovative engineering approach allows for the rapid insertion of flexible probes into the brain, potentially avoiding tissue damage and longevity issues associated with more rigid probes.
The N1 implant, which is about a quarter in size, is fully implantable and has 1024 stimulation channels. It is wireless, including a wirelessly rechargeable battery, and is designed to remain hidden under the skin following surgery. Elon Musk emphasized the importance of using electronic solutions to solve electronic problems, highlighting the need for an electronic device to address the challenges of brain-machine interfaces.
Neuralink has conducted both human and animal trials to test the capabilities and safety of their brain-machine interface technology.
Animal Trials: During the animal trials, Neuralink implanted electrodes in the somatosensory cortex of pigs to measure sensory activity, such as that associated with walking. They were able to hear a tiny pop or click from the audio channel each time the neuron they were listening to fired.
Human Trials: Neuralink is about to start human trials, which will provide crucial insights into the potential of their technology. These trials will involve cutting through the skin to reach the skull, drilling a hole, and exposing the dura, the covering that protects the brain. The electrodes will be implanted on the brain surface after cutting the dura and folding it back to expose the brain.
Both human and animal trials are essential for understanding the effectiveness and safety of Neuralink's brain-machine interface technology. These trials aim to revolutionize the treatment of various conditions, including Parkinson's, epilepsy, dementia, Alzheimer's, stroke, paralysis, psychiatric illnesses, and motor degenerative diseases.
Elon Musk emphasizes that the use of Neuralink's device should be optional, acknowledging the potential concerns surrounding brain implants. He believes that humans are already cyborgs to some extent, with our phones and computers serving as extensions of ourselves. Musk founded Neuralink in response to concerns about artificial intelligence's potential dominance over humanity, aiming to address the AI symbiosis problem and enable humans to compete with new sentient AI.
In conclusion, Neuralink's innovative approach to brain-machine interfaces has the potential to revolutionize the field of neuroengineering. By developing wireless and implantable devices. Moreover, Neuralink aims to restore functionality, enhance human capabilities, and address neurological disorders and brain injuries. With its focus on restoring vision and its vision of linking human minds to supercomputers, Neuralink is at the forefront of advancing the boundaries of human-machine interaction.
REFERENCES
➢ The Science Behind Elon Musk’s Neuralink
Brain Chip | WIRED - YouTube
➢ Elon Musk Explains NeuraLink - YouTube
➢ Elon Musk’s Neuralink Event: Everything Revealed in 10 Minutes - YouTube
➢ Neuralink Show and Tell, Fall 2022 - YouTube
➢ Elon Musk Confirms Neuralink Will Start Human Trials - YouTube
➢ A quick guide to Elon Musk's new brain-implant company, Neuralink - Los Angeles Times
(latimes.com)
➢ Neuralink - Wikipedia
➢ Elon Musk’s brain implant company is approved for human testing. How alarmed should we be? | Elon Musk | The Guardian
➢ Elon Musk unveils Neuralink’s plans for brain-reading ‘threads’ - The Verge
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