Neuralink has officially opened recruitment for its inaugural human clinical trial known as the PRIME Study. The trailblazing trial aims to test both the safety and initial functionalities of Neuralink's brain-computer interface (BCI), particularly focusing on aiding paralyzed individuals in controlling external devices solely through thought.

A Close Look at PRIME Study and Eligibility

The PRIME Study (Precise Robotically Implanted Brain-Computer Interface) will use Neuralink's R1 Robot for surgical implantation of the N1 Implant in the brain. These ultra-fine threads are aimed at capturing and wirelessly transmitting brain signals that indicate movement intentions. One of the initial goals is to allow individuals to control computer cursors or keyboards through their thoughts.

The study has been authorized under the investigational device exemption (IDE) granted by the FDA in May 2023 and targets people who have quadriplegia resulting from cervical spinal cord injuries or ALS.