Neuralink announces first brain chip patient nearly fully recovers

In a groundbreaking development, Elon Musk, the visionary entrepreneur behind Neuralink, announced on February 20 the successful recovery of the first human patient implanted with a brain-chip from the pioneering neurotechnology startup. Musk revealed during a Spaces event on the social media platform X that the patient has fully recovered and demonstrated the remarkable ability to control a computer mouse using their thoughts alone, Reuters reported. 

Neuralink, a company co-founded by Musk, aims to revolutionize the interface between the human brain and computers. The procedure involved the use of a robot to precisely place the brain-computer interface implant in a specific region of the brain responsible for controlling voluntary movements.

The primary objective of the initiative is to empower individuals to manipulate digital devices using their thoughts, thereby opening up unprecedented possibilities for individuals with physical disabilities.

Musk elucidated that the next phase of the trial involves maximizing the patient's ability to interact with the computer interface.

"Neuralink was now trying to get as many mouse button clicks as possible from the patient,"

he revealed.

The company has encountered regulatory hurdles and faced questions regarding the safety and ethical implications of its endeavors. Musk, known for his ambitious vision, has articulated grand aspirations for Neuralink beyond facilitating brain-computer interfaces. He envisions the technology as a potential solution for addressing a myriad of neurological disorders and mental health conditions. Musk has grand ambitions for Neuralink, saying it would facilitate speedy surgical insertions of its chip devices to treat conditions like obesity, autism, depression, and schizophrenia

In 2023, Neuralink had an approximate valuation of $5 bn and recently, the company faced fines for violating U.S. Department of Transportation rules pertaining to the transportation of hazardous materials.

On January 28th, Neuralink, led by Elon Musk, achieved a milestone by implanting its inaugural chip into a human subject, showcasing promising initial findings in the detection of neuron spikes. These spikes, as defined by the National Institute of Health, represent the electrical and chemical activities of neurons, which play a vital role in transmitting information within the brain and throughout the body.

Last year, Neuralink received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to commence its first human trial, marking a pivotal step in the company's mission to address paralysis and various neurological disorders. In September, Neuralink announced the approval for human trial recruitment, further advancing its endeavor to leverage technology for medical breakthroughs.