What's Happening?
Researchers from Columbia University, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Stanford University, and the University of Pennsylvania have developed a new brain-computer interface (BCI) called the Biological Interface
System to Cortex (BISC). This device, described in Nature Electronics, features a wireless subdural-contained interface with 65,536 electrodes and 1,024 channels. Unlike traditional BCIs that require larger electronics and are more invasive, BISC uses a single silicon chip that is only 50 micrometers thick. This chip can be placed between the brain and the skull, minimizing invasiveness while maximizing neural recording capabilities. Preclinical studies in pigs and nonhuman primates have shown that BISC can reliably record neural activity over extended periods, decoding complex patterns from motor, sensory, and visual cortices.
Why It's Important?
The development of BISC represents a significant advancement in the field of neural interfaces, potentially transforming how brain disorders are treated. By providing high-resolution neural recordings with minimal invasiveness, this technology could improve the quality of life for patients with conditions like drug-resistant epilepsy. The ability to interface seamlessly with AI and external devices opens new possibilities for adaptive neuroprosthetics and brain-AI interfaces, which could be used to treat various neuropsychiatric disorders. This innovation not only enhances the understanding of brain functions but also paves the way for future applications in human-machine interactions.
What's Next?
The research team is currently conducting studies in human patients for short-term inoperative recordings. These studies aim to further explore the clinical applications of BISC, particularly in treating drug-resistant epilepsy. As the technology progresses, it may expand its uses beyond therapy, potentially revolutionizing how humans interact with AI and machines. The ongoing research and development could lead to broader adoption of BCIs in medical and non-medical fields, influencing future innovations in neurotechnology.
