China Achieves Groundbreaking Progress in Telepathic Control of Robots by Monkeys

In a remarkable stride for brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and brain implants, Chinese scientists have achieved a groundbreaking feat by developing an implant that allows monkeys to control a robotic arm using their thoughts. This development has been a long-sought goal for pioneers in the field, including Elon Musk's Neuralink.

The researchers at Nankai University in China recently announced their creation of a brain-computer interface (BCI) that enables a monkey to operate a robotic arm solely through its mind. This remarkable achievement is regarded as a significant breakthrough with the potential to greatly improve the lives of individuals with disabilities.

By converting electroencephalogram (EEG) signals from the monkey's brain into control commands, the brain-computer interface facilitates the operation of the robotic arm, which is equipped with food. It's important to note that the research conducted by the team at Nankai University has not yet undergone peer review, and the claims made in the announcement await independent verification.

Pushing the Boundaries of BCIs

The trial, led by Professor Duan Feng, involved collaboration with the General Hospital of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (301 Hospital) and Shanghai Xinwei Medical Technology Company Ltd.

Building upon previous work with interventional brain-computer interface experiments involving animals, particularly sheep, the researchers incorporated EEG signal recognition and other core technologies into this experiment.

The university also released an image showcasing the surgical procedure performed on the sedated monkey, with doctors monitoring the process on a screen while the monkey lay on a table.

As described in the announcement, Professor Duan Feng's team developed an interventional brain-computer interface that involves attaching an interventional EEG sensor to the monkey's brain vessels, eliminating the need for invasive craniotomy. This approach allows for the collection of intracranial EEG signals.

How Does the New BCI Operate?

The interventional EEG sensor is inserted through the jugular vein, travels to the sagittal sinus, and reaches the motor cortex area of the brain. Following the surgical procedure, the researchers successfully collected and recognized EEG signals, enabling the monkey to actively control the robotic arm. The announcement emphasizes the importance of security and stability in developing a non-invasive and effective brain-computer interface.

According to Professor Duan Feng, "The results of the interventional brain-computer interface experiment carried out in the brains of non-human primates have advanced the field from laboratory prospective research to clinical application. This advancement will promote the industrial upgrading of medical enterprises and the creation of a national brand of high-end medical equipment, with broad market prospects in the field of brain disease medical rehabilitation in the future."

The Race to Perfect BCIs for Humans

In July of last year, Synchron initiated human trials of its brain implant, which allows wearers to control a computer solely through their thoughts. The Stentrode brain implant, approximately the size of a paperclip, will be implanted in six patients with severe paralysis in New York and Pittsburgh. This innovation enables patients to control digital devices and perform daily tasks such as texting, emailing, and online shopping using their thoughts.

While Elon Musk's Neuralink has also attracted attention in this field, it has faced controversy due to allegations of animal rights violations. In March, Neuralink's request to conduct human testing with its chip was rejected by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA outlined several concerns that Neuralink must address before proceeding with human trials, a pivotal step for final product approval.

Lab notes from experiments conducted at the University of California Davis (UC Davis) raised similar concerns regarding animal welfare issues associated with the implants, aligning with the FDA's apprehensions.

Neuralink has been the subject of scrutiny due to concerns raised by animal advocacy groups and former employees regarding potential violations of animal welfare. The FDA's rejection of Neuralink's request for human testing included a list of deficiencies that must be addressed before proceeding with human trials, according to multiple sources within the company. These concerns regarding animal welfare and regulatory compliance underscore the importance of ethical considerations in advancing the field of brain-computer interfaces.