Neuralink, the neurotechnology company founded by American billionaire Elon Musk, announced yesterday (November 20) that they have received approval to conduct their first clinical trials in Canada for implanting chips into the human brain. This initiative aims to provide paralyzed patients with the ability to use digital devices solely through thought.
According to Neuralink’s announcement, the clinical research in Canada will assess the safety and initial functionality of the brain implant device, enabling patients with quadriplegia to control external devices using their thoughts.
Elon Musk’s Neuralink approved for human brain chip trials. (Source: Shutterstock).
In Canada, the University Health Network has stated that a medical facility in Toronto has been selected to perform this complex neurosurgical procedure.
Previously in the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had “greenlit” Neuralink to test brain chip implants on two patients. According to updated reports, the company indicated that the device is functioning well in the second trial patient, who can use it to play video games and design 3D objects solely through thought.
In the United States, over 1,000 individuals with paralysis have registered to volunteer for Neuralink’s research trial program, but fewer than 100 of these individuals have qualified to participate. The company aims to implant the device in 10 patients this year and hopes to recruit a diverse range of participants, as all current trial registrants are white males.
Founded in 2016, Neuralink is developing a chip that can be implanted within the skull, with the ultimate goal of helping disabled patients regain mobility and communication, as well as restoring vision.
In September 2024, this startup received the title of “breakthrough device” from the FDA for its experimental implant aimed at restoring vision.
