Elon Musk’s first human trial with Neuralink brain chip

If I have to quote just one healthcare/ health-tech development of this year, it will be this! - The start of Elon Musk's Neuralink trial.

It's just Feb 2024, yet I'm confident that this will remain the biggest healthcare/ health-tech story of 2024.

I am breaking it down to make the whole story easy to understand. Let's begin!

1. Neuralink has just made history by implanting a 'brain-reading' device into a person for the FIRST time!
2. Imagine controlling computers or devices with just your thoughts!

Let's deep dive into this mind-blowing journey together!

First, let's understand "Brain–Computer Interfaces" (BCI).

1. These are devices that can record and decode brain activity.
2. A person with severe paralysis can control a computer, robotic arm, wheelchair, or some other device with his thoughts alone.
3. Although Neurotech researchers are buzzing with excitement, they are a bit frustrated too!

The reason? Lack of detailed info!

1. We're all curious, but all that we have is a study brochure and a cryptic tweet by Elon Musk.
2. There has been no confirmation that the trial has begun.
3. Also, we don't know where implantations are being done and the exact outcomes of this trial.

Why is this Neuralink chip a game-changer?

1. This is like a sci-fi movie where the devices qre implanted, wireless, and equipped with 64 flexible threads for brain activity recording.
2. Unlike surface electrodes, Neuralink goes deep, targeting individual neurons!
3. Fully implanted, wireless, and promising safer usage. No infection risks, no strokes, no bleeding, no vasculature damage!

So, what's next?

1. The trial will last five years, examining the device's impact, infections, and functionality.
2. Volunteers will be like tech superheroes, controlling computers with their minds!

Some questions that everyone is asking:

1. What will be the long-term results?
2. The signals will remain consistent or their quality will reduce with time?
3. What about safety and transparency? The trial has been approved by the USFDA (after rejecting an earlier application from Neuralink), but the trial is not listed on ClinicalTrials.gov.

What to expect in the future?

1. Scientists (and everyone else) are eager to unfold the mystery of the human trial!
2. A tech saga with twists and turns! It will be action-packed since Elon Musk is involved.

We are getting into a future where thoughts are about to become actions!