Elon Musk’s Neuralink has launched its first clinical trial in Abu Dhabi, aiming to explore how advanced brain-computer interface (BCI) technology can help individuals with motor and speech impairments control devices using their thoughts.
In partnership with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Health and Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, the trial, named UAE-PRIME, seeks to transform lives through innovative technology. The focus is on using Neuralink’s N1 chip, which will be implanted in the brain of participants. This chip will monitor neural activity, allowing users to control a computer through the N1 user app.
Mansoor Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Department of Health, highlighted the significance of the initiative, stating that it “marks an important step in advancing brain-computer interface technology on a global scale.” He emphasized that the partnership with Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is driven by a commitment to ethics, science, and patient care. “We are proud to support innovation that is grounded in ethics, driven by science, and focused on restoring hope for patients around the world,” he added.
Neuralink described the trial as a breakthrough, emphasizing that it is “an important step towards making our groundbreaking technology available worldwide to transform the lives of millions affected by debilitating neurological conditions.”
The trial will begin with an 18-month primary phase, followed by a five-year long-term follow-up. Participants will undergo surgery to have the N1 chip implanted, which will allow them to control devices using their thoughts.
Eligibility for the study includes adults aged 22 or older who have experienced quadriplegia due to spinal cord injury or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), with no significant improvement for at least one year. Participants must also have a consistent and reliable caregiver.
