Paralyzed Man Feels Objects Through Another Person's Hand with Revolutionary Brain Implant
In a groundbreaking breakthrough, researchers at the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research have successfully enabled a paralyzed man to feel objects through another person's hand using a telepathic brain implant. The innovative technology has the potential to revolutionize rehabilitation after spinal cord injuries and may one day allow people to share experiences remotely.
According to Chad Bouton, lead researcher on the project, "We created a mind-body connection between two different individuals." This remarkable achievement was made possible through the collaboration of Keith Thomas, a man in his 40s who was paralyzed from the chest down after a diving accident in July 2020. Thomas's neural activity was read via a device fixed to his skull, allowing researchers to feed signals into a computer running an artificial intelligence program.
The AI system translated these signals into commands that controlled another person's hand, effectively creating a telepathic connection between the two individuals. "This approach could be used as a form of rehabilitation after spinal cord injury, allowing people with paralysis to work together," said Bouton.
In 2023, researchers had already implanted five sets of tiny electrodes in Thomas's brain involved in moving and feeling his right hand. This previous study laid the groundwork for the current breakthrough, which has significant implications for society. "This technology could enable people to share experiences remotely, potentially revolutionizing the way we interact with each other," added Bouton.
The development of this telepathic brain implant is a testament to the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and neuroscience research. As researchers continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, they are also raising important questions about the potential consequences of such technology on society.
While some may see this breakthrough as a game-changer for people with paralysis, others may be concerned about the ethics of using AI to control human bodies. "As we move forward with this research, it's essential that we consider the social and cultural implications of this technology," said Dr. Rachel Kim, a neuroscientist at Harvard University.
The current status of the project is that researchers are refining the technology to improve its accuracy and efficiency. Future developments may include expanding the use of telepathic brain implants for other medical conditions and exploring new applications in fields such as education and entertainment.
As this revolutionary technology continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the future of human interaction will never be the same. With the potential to enable people with paralysis to feel objects through another person's hand, researchers are on the cusp of a major breakthrough that could change lives forever.
*Reporting by Newscientist.*