Neuralink
Neuralink Corp. is a cutting-edge American neurotechnology company based in Fremont, California, founded by entrepreneur Elon Musk in 2016. The company specializes in developing implantable brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) with the ambitious goal of achieving symbiosis between humans and artificial intelligence.
History:
Neuralink's journey began in 2016 when Elon Musk, along with a team of seven scientists and engineers, embarked on a mission to explore the possibilities of brain–computer interfaces. The company's founding team comprised experts in diverse fields such as neuroscience, biochemistry, and robotics. In January 2017, Neuralink officially acquired the trademark for its name.
Vision and Goals:
In April 2017, Neuralink announced its short-term goal of creating devices to treat severe brain diseases, with a long-term vision of human enhancement, aligning with the concept of transhumanism. Elon Musk's inspiration for Neuralink partially stems from the science fiction concept of a "neural lace" in Iain M. Banks' fictional universe, The Culture.
Musk envisions the neural lace as a "digital layer above the cortex," aiming for symbiosis with artificial intelligence. He believes that achieving this symbiosis is crucial to addressing potential existential threats posed by unchecked artificial intelligence.
Technological Advancements:
Neuralink's technological breakthroughs include ultra-thin probes inserted into the brain through an automated process performed by a surgical robot. These probes, composed mostly of biocompatible materials, contain electrodes capable of locating electrical signals in the brain.
The surgical robot, engineered by Neuralink, can rapidly insert flexible probes into the brain, aiming to avoid issues like tissue damage and longevity associated with larger and more rigid probes.
The company has also developed an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) to create a 1,536-channel recording system. This system, with individual programmable amplifiers, analog-to-digital converters, and peripheral circuit control, aims to decode information obtained from neurons, offering a better understanding of brain function and the ability to stimulate neurons.
In July 2020, Neuralink received FDA breakthrough device designation, allowing limited human testing under FDA guidelines for medical devices.
Human Trials and Criticisms:
In May 2023, Neuralink received FDA approval for human clinical trials. Human trials officially began in September 2023 under an investigational device exemption.
However, Neuralink has faced criticism for its animal testing practices, particularly regarding the euthanization of primates involved in medical trials. Reports suggest complications, including psychological distress and chronic infections, leading to criticism from groups like PETA and the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM). Neuralink has been under federal investigation for animal welfare violations.
As of November 2023, concerns have arisen about the transparency of Neuralink regarding animal suffering and death, leading to calls for investigation by U.S. lawmakers.
Recent Developments:
On January 29, 2024, Elon Musk announced the successful implantation of a Neuralink device in a human. Initial results showed promising neuron spike detection, marking a significant milestone in the company's journey.
Reception and Criticism:
Despite technical challenges, Neuralink has been at the forefront of brain–computer interface technology. However, criticism has been directed at the company's public demonstrations, with some scientists questioning the revolutionary nature of Neuralink's advancements.
In January 2022, former employees criticized Neuralink's corporate culture, describing it as a "culture of blame and fear" with vacillating priorities.
Neuralink continues to be a pioneering force in the field of neurotechnology, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in brain–computer interface development.