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Neuralink Embarks on First Human Trial, Despite Killing 1500 Animals

Neuralink, Elon Musk’s brain-chip implant company, has announced a significant milestone in its journey towards developing a fully implantable, wireless brain-computer interface (BCI). After years of controversy and concerns over animal welfare, Neuralink is now recruiting participants for its groundbreaking first-in-human clinical trial, the PRIME Study (Precise Robotically Implanted Brain-Computer Interface). This innovative medical device trial aims to evaluate the safety and functionality of Neuralink‘s implant and surgical robot, with the ultimate goal of enabling people with paralysis to control external devices using their thoughts.

Source: The Young Turks/YouTube

The PRIME Study utilizes cutting-edge technology to implant ultra-fine and flexible threads into a specific region of the brain responsible for controlling movement intention. This implant, known as the N1 Implant, is virtually invisible once in place and wirelessly transmits brain signals to an app, which decodes these signals into commands. The initial objective of this BCI is to empower individuals with paralysis to control a computer cursor or keyboard solely through their thoughts, offering newfound independence.

Neuralink‘s first human trial has established strict criteria for participant selection. Eligible candidates must have quadriplegia due to spinal cord injury or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and must be at least one-year post-injury with no signs of improvement. Participants should be 22 years or older and have a caregiver for Support. Exclusions include individuals prone to seizures, those with active implants such as pacemakers, and those requiring ongoing MRI or similar treatments.

The PRIME Study is expected to span six years with continuous monitoring. The Primary Study phase will encompass nine at-home and clinic consultations over 18 months, followed by 20 consultations over the next five years. Additionally, BCI Research Sessions will require participants to engage in two one-hour sessions each week. The green light from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in May marked a significant turning point for Neuralink, as the agency had previously expressed safety concerns.

Neuralink has faced its share of controversies, particularly concerning animal welfare. Allegations of poorly managed monkey deaths during initial testing in 2022 raised concerns. Neuralink acknowledged euthanizing two animals for research purposes and cited medical reasons for euthanizing six others. Subsequently, the company revamped its surgical protocols and device design.

A Reuters report in December 2022 revealed disturbing incidents of animal cruelty and deaths totaling 1,500 since 2018, partly attributed to the project’s rapid pace. Following an investigation by the Department of Agriculture’s Office of Inspector General, Neuralink was cleared of violations of the Animal Welfare Act in March.

Neuralink’s PRIME Study offers hope to those with paralysis by exploring the potential of a revolutionary brain-computer interface. While the company has weathered controversy and scrutiny, at least now those who are participating in the study can consent, unlike animals.

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