Neuralink Faces Challenges with Brain Implant as Threads Retract from Human Patient

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA — Neuralink, the brain-computer interface (BCI) startup founded by Elon Musk, reported a malfunction in its brain implant system, the Link, after its first human implantation. This development marks a significant hurdle in Neuralink's ambitious goal to revolutionize how patients with paralysis interact with technology.

The Link, Neuralink’s flagship BCI, is designed to record neural signals using 1,024 electrodes across 64 ultra-thin threads, enabling patients to control external devices with their minds. In January, the company implanted the device in Noland Arbaugh, a 29-year-old patient, to assess its safety. Neuralink showcased Arbaugh using the BCI in a live stream in March, and initial reports suggested the surgery was successful.

However, Neuralink revealed in a blog post on Wednesday that several threads had retracted from Arbaugh’s brain tissue in the weeks following the procedure, reducing the number of effective electrodes. This retraction has hindered Neuralink's ability to accurately measure the Link’s performance.

The company has not specified the exact number of threads that retracted. As a response to the issue, Neuralink has modified the recording algorithm, improved the user interface, and enhanced techniques for translating neural signals into cursor movements. Despite considering the removal of the implant, Neuralink decided against it, as the malfunction has not posed a direct risk to Arbaugh’s safety, according to reports from The Wall Street Journal.

Despite the setbacks, Arbaugh continues to use the BCI system extensively, reportedly for about eight hours daily on weekdays and up to 10 hours on weekends. He described the Link as a “luxury overload” that has significantly helped him reconnect with the world.

Neuralink is one of several companies developing BCI systems, a technology that has been the subject of academic research for decades. However, Neuralink faces extensive safety and efficacy testing before it can seek approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to commercialize its technology.

This recent issue highlights the challenges and complexities involved in developing advanced BCIs. While Neuralink continues to refine its technology, the path to widespread clinical use and commercial availability remains long and fraught with regulatory hurdles.

As the company navigates these challenges, it remains to be seen how Neuralink will address the technical issues and continue its journey towards transforming neural interface technology.