Paradromics Completes First Human Brain Implant Trial in 10 Minutes
Brain-computer interface technology took a significant leap forward as Paradromics announced the successful completion of its first human implant trial. Surgeons at the University of Michigan implanted and then safely removed the company's Connexus device in just 10 minutes during an epilepsy surgery on May 14.
Seizing the Surgical Opportunity
The groundbreaking procedure capitalized on what CEO Matt Angle called a "golden opportunity" - leveraging an existing neurosurgery to minimize additional risk. The patient, undergoing treatment for epilepsy, agreed to temporary implantation in their temporal lobe, which processes auditory information and memory.
"When someone is undergoing major neurosurgery, it's a very rare chance to test new technology," Angle explained. The team used a specialized EpiPen-like instrument to complete the rapid implantation.
Technical Breakthrough: 420 Microelectrodes
The compact device, smaller than a quarter, packs an impressive 420 microscopic needle electrodes that penetrate brain tissue directly. This design allows recording signals from individual neurons - a critical advantage over competitors using less invasive surface or vascular approaches.
"By getting close to individual neurons, we obtain the highest quality signal," Angle emphasized. This precision could revolutionize communication for paralyzed patients by translating neural activity into speech or text.
Restoring Speech Through Technology
Paradromics aims to help patients with spinal cord injuries, strokes, or ALS regain communication abilities. The system doesn't read thoughts but interprets motor intentions - even when patients can't physically speak, their brains still generate signals associated with speech movements.
Recent studies from Stanford and UCSF have shown promising results, with implants decoding speech at nearly 80 words per minute - approaching natural conversation speed.
Challenging Established Technology
The trial represents a challenge to the dominant Utah array technology that has underpinned brain-computer research for two decades. While effective, these older implants degrade over time and require external connections. Paradromics and competitors like Neuralink are developing more durable, higher-capacity alternatives.
Dr. Matt Westly of the University of Michigan noted: "More electrodes mean better performance and functionality - that's why this advancement matters."
Future Directions: Scaling Up Safely
Looking ahead, Paradromics plans to study implanting up to four devices simultaneously for enhanced capability. But first comes rigorous safety testing - formal clinical trials with permanent implants are scheduled before year's end.
Justin Sanchez of Battelle Neurotechnology praised the approach: "Early human testing is crucial when developing fully implantable brain devices. You need confirmation you're capturing the right signals."
Founded in 2015 after years of animal testing, Paradromics has now cleared a critical hurdle toward commercialization. As researcher Jennifer Collinger observed: "This trial serves as an excellent rehearsal for longer-term studies ahead."
Key Points
- Paradromics completed its first human brain implant trial during epilepsy surgery at University of Michigan
- The Connexus device features 420 microelectrodes for high-resolution neural signal recording
- Technology aims to restore communication for paralyzed patients by decoding speech-related brain activity
- Represents advancement over traditional Utah array technology with more durable design and greater capacity
- Company plans formal clinical trials with permanent implants before year's end