Indian-origin scientist develops smart chip for wireless neural implants
Advertisement
SINGAPORE: An Indian-origin scientist has developed a smart chip that can be paired with neural implants for efficient wireless transmission of brain signals -- thus alleviating the debilitating symptoms of Parkinson's disease or give paraplegic people the ability to move prosthetic limbs.
According to assistant professor Arindam Basu from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore), the research team has tested the chip on data recorded from animal models which showed that it could decode the brain's signal to the hand and fingers with 95% accuracy.
"What we have developed is a very versatile smart chip that can process data, analyze patterns and spot the difference," professor Basu said.
Currently, neural implants when embedded in the brain need to be connected by wires to an external device outside the body.
For a prosthetic patient, the neural implant is connected to a computer that decodes the brain signals so the artificial limb can move. These external wires are not only cumbersome but the permanent openings which allow the wires into the brain increases the risk of infections.
According to assistant professor Arindam Basu from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore), the research team has tested the chip on data recorded from animal models which showed that it could decode the brain's signal to the hand and fingers with 95% accuracy.
"What we have developed is a very versatile smart chip that can process data, analyze patterns and spot the difference," professor Basu said.
Currently, neural implants when embedded in the brain need to be connected by wires to an external device outside the body.
For a prosthetic patient, the neural implant is connected to a computer that decodes the brain signals so the artificial limb can move. These external wires are not only cumbersome but the permanent openings which allow the wires into the brain increases the risk of infections.
Our comments section is governed by our Comments Policy . By posting comments at Medical Dialogues you automatically agree with our Comments Policy , Terms And Conditions and Privacy Policy .
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.