Researchers at Caltech have developed a non-invasive functional ultrasound system that can detect brain activity by listening to tiny changes in blood flow within the brain. The system could provide a viable alternative to invasive electrodes that are implanted into the brain for brain machine interfaces, such as those used in prosthetics. So far, the system can detect the brain activity corresponding to a specific body movement in non-human primates, before the movement occurs.
Brain machine interfaces hold significant promise for those with paralysis in controlling a variety of assistive technologies, such as wheelchairs and prosthetic devices. However, the need to implant electrodes in the brain may give many pause for thought. This latest study has shown that functional ultrasound may be a viable alternative.
“Invasive forms of brain-machine interfaces can already give movement back to those who have lost it due to neurological injury or disease,” said Sumner Norman, a researcher involved in the study, in a Caltech announcement. “Unfortunately, only a select few with the most severe paralysis are eligible and willing to have electrodes implanted into their brain.
By CONN HASTINGS NEUROLOGY – MARCH 23RD, 2021
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