Brain-Computer Interface Enables Independent, Accurate Communication for Man Living with ALS
The device translated brain signals into text and speech, and Harrell used it at home on 364 of 397 days, researchers said.
- Casey Harrell, diagnosed with ALS six years ago, communicates at an average speed of 56 words per minute using a brain-computer interface implanted at the University of California, Davis.
- In 2023, Associate Professor of Neurological Surgery David Brandman implanted 256 microelectrodes into Harrell's brain, connecting them to titanium pedestals attached to his skull to enable the BCI system.
- Over 364 of 397 days at home, Harrell communicated 183,060 sentences with 92% accuracy, while neural engineer Nicholas Card developed a 'privacy mode' allowing him to prevent data transmission.
- Harrell, based in Oakland, California, describes the device as 'nothing short of revolutionary,' enabling him to continue working in climate advocacy and reconnect with family.
- Computational neuroscientist Christian Herff notes that findings published in Nature Medicine indicate BCIs are 'really becoming a medical device instead of a research tool,' representing the most extensive speech-communication data set.
16 Articles
16 Articles
A new study shows for the first time how neurotechnology can be used for everyday communication outside the laboratory and where the limits lie.
Unprecedented brain implant allows paralyzed man to completely control his computer and "speak" independently
Published in Nature Medicine, new research suggests a brain-computer interface can empower a person with severe paralysis to converse and work from home. The device decodes brain signals into text and computer commands without needing daily expert assistance.
A man with paralysis succeeds in communicating with his environment through a novel system. The technology translates brain signals directly into text. Experts see this as a decisive step for research, as the technology worked outside the laboratory for the first time.
Medical Xpress
NewswiseBrain-computer interface enables independent, accurate communication for man living with ALS
A new study demonstrates that a person with severe paralysis caused by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) can use a brain-computer interface (BCI) at home to communicate, work and interact with the digital world—without the need for researcher support. Published in Nature Medicine, the results mark a significant step toward delivering practical assistive technology for people with severe speech and motor impairments.
For two years a man suffering from severe paralysis and difficulty in speaking due to amiotrophic lateral sclerosis (Sla) has been able to communicate and use a computer thanks to a chip implanted in the brain. The peculiarity of the case, reports Nature Medicine magazine, lies in the fact that the man has used the device at home, in everyday life, instead of in a context controlled as a laboratory and with the support of professionals. It has u…
Electrodes have been implanted in the man's brain regions that enable us to move.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 55% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
