Neuralink Marks Milestone as Elon Musk Announces Successful Implantation in First Human, Details Remain Limited
Elon Musk Announces First Human Implant from Neuralink on X Platform
In a post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Elon Musk revealed that the first human recipient of a Neuralink implant is recovering well. Although Musk highlighted promising initial results in neuron spike detection, specific details about the patient were not disclosed. Neuralink had previously expressed interest in recruiting individuals with quadriplegia due to spinal cord injuries or ALS when it announced its recruitment efforts in September.
Neuralink, co-founded by Musk, is among various entities working on connecting the nervous system to computers, with the aim of treating brain disorders and addressing brain injuries. Musk's announcement was reposted by Neuralink on X, but the company did not issue additional statements in response to inquiries by The Associated Press.
Neuralink had previously reported FDA approval for its "investigational device exemption," allowing the initiation of a clinical study. However, the FDA clarified it cannot disclose information about specific studies. The Neuralink device, roughly the size of a large coin, is designed to be implanted in the skull, with ultra-thin wires going directly into the brain. The initial goal is to enable users to control a computer cursor or keyboard using their thoughts.
In a separate post on X, Musk revealed that the first Neuralink product is named "Telepathy," intended to allow users to control electronic devices by thought alone. The initial user focus will be on individuals who have lost the use of their limbs.
While Neuralink's developments are generating attention, questions about the device's effectiveness and safety remain unanswered. Clinical trials will play a crucial role in collecting data on these aspects. Anne Vanhoestenberghe, a professor at King's College London, emphasized the need for long-term evaluation of stability and participant benefits, expressing caution due to the limited available information regarding safety.
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