Researchers to Fit Computer Chips in Human Brains

A computer processor manufacturer is working on chips to implant into human brains. It could dramatically improve life for people with spinal or brain injuries, but is years from becoming a reality.

The project is a partnership between the University of Washington's Center for Sensorimotor Neural Engineering and ARM, a company which dominates the market for processors in mobile devices.

It will build on existing technologies which can read signals in the brain and then wirelessly transmit them to nerve stimulators, allowing people to control their hands and arms despite suffering from spinal injuries that cause total paralysis. (Source: bbc.co.uk)

Brain Could 'Feel' Objects

The new project will not only work on that aspect but will also attempt to make the process work in reverse, sending signals from other parts of the body to the brain. That could allow people with spinal damage to get sensory information about objects they touch such as how hot they are or how firmly they are gripping the object. In turn that could give them greater control over holding and manipulating objects.

The researchers working on the project also believe it could help people with brain injuries such as those resulting from a stroke. The theory is that the combination of transmitting and receiving information in this way might help the brain "rewire" itself and regain functionality lost by physical damage to the brain's neurons. (Source: design-reuse.com)

Overheating a Challenge

The existing technology that allows paralyzed people to move their limbs shows that the concept is valid and works in principle. The challenge now is more about overcoming practical limitations. The most significant are the need to keep any chip as small as possible to avoid complications when installing it in the brain, and to minimize the heat generated by the chip, which could cause complications.

The researchers also need to figure out a way to keep the power use as low as possible as recharging or replacing batteries isn't exactly a practical option.

Whatever the solution is, it won't happen overnight. In recognition of the challenge, the two organizations have committed to run for the project for at least 10 years.

What's Your Opinion?

Is this a worthwhile project? Do you think the proposed technology will be in practical use by the end of the 10 years? Do you see any ethical issues arising from the idea?