Tech entrepreneur, Elon Musk’s brain implant company, Neuralink, has received approval from the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) to embark on its “first-in-human clinical study.” This major achievement comes after a series of challenges faced by the company in its quest to obtain FDA approval. In its tweet, Neuralink stated that this noteworthy accomplishment was the result of a close collaboration between its team and the FDA, and marked a significant milestone, hinting that the technology would benefit many people in the future. Although recruitment for the clinical trial is yet to commence, Neuralink has promised to release more information on this as soon as possible.
Neuralink’s first attempt at applying for FDA approval was in early 2022. This application was rejected due to concerns raised by the FDA about the safety of the lithium battery, the possible displacement of the implant’s wires within the brain, and the safe extraction of the device without harming brain tissue.
The potential of brain-implant technology is enormous. If developed and implemented successfully, it could transform the treatment of a host of severe conditions, offering hope to people suffering from blindness, paralysis, or other disabilities. Musk’s visionary plan for Neuralink includes working on conditions such as obesity, autism, depression, schizophrenia, and even making it possible to browse the web, and telepathy.
In congratulatory messages sent to the Neuralink team on Twitter, Musk hailed the company’s milestone and the promise it holds for the future of the implant technology industry.
