Neurotechnology – Neuralink To Make The Human Brain Discuss With Computers
Elon Musk’s company Neuralink has received approval from US regulators to conduct human testing. Neuralink aims to establish a direct interface between the human brain and computers, enhance human capabilities, treat neurological disorders, and achieve a symbiotic relationship between humans and artificial intelligence.
The technology involves an implant called the “Link,” placed in the brain through surgery and contains electrodes for recording neural activity and stimulating specific brain regions. Neuralink’s ambitions include addressing paralysis, spinal cord injuries, and brain disorders.
However, merging human consciousness with computing has raised concerns and sparked debates about the potential implications.
Neuralink faces competition in the emerging field of brain-machine or brain-computer interface research. Other companies, such as Synchron, Blackrock Neurotech, and Science, are also pursuing their implant projects and have gained FDA approval for human testing.
While Neuralink has attracted attention, particularly due to Elon Musk’s involvement, it is not the sole player in the field. The company has faced delays and even explored potential partnerships with other developers like Synchron.
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Before obtaining approval for human testing, Neuralink conducted experiments on animals, which attracted scrutiny. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) launched an investigation into potential violations of the Animal Welfare Act at Neuralink.
Reportedly, Neuralink was involved in the deaths of approximately 1,500 animals, while Synchron was said to have killed around 80 animals for research purposes. These incidents raised ethical concerns surrounding animal testing in the field of neurotechnology.
Since 2019, Elon Musk has made at least four statements predicting that Neuralink, his medical device company, would soon initiate human trials of an innovative brain implant that could treat conditions such as blindness and paralysis.
The technology developed by Neuralink could aid in studying and treating neurological disorders. Musk has also stated that it could eventually integrate human consciousness with artificial intelligence.
Overall, Neuralink‘s approval for human testing marks a significant milestone in its pursuit of connecting the human brain with computers. Still, it faces competition from other companies and must navigate the ethical considerations associated with its research and development activities.