Neurotechnology: Revolutionizing Medicine and Beyond with Brain-Computer Interfaces

Written by Hanaa Saleem

Recently I read an article about one of the first people to regain the ability to move his hand after being paralyzed for years, thanks to an innovative technology known as brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). We had learned in science class that after a severe spinal cord injury, this individual had lost all motor function in his hands. But through a BCI, he was able to control a robotic arm simply by thinking about the movement. For the first time in years, he was able to grab a cup of coffee with his own hand. This moment wasn't just a breakthrough for him—it was a glimpse into the future of neurotechnology, where the boundaries between mind and machine are becoming increasingly blurred.

In this era where technological advancements are rapidly developing and evolving, possibilities that were never possible before now have the potential to become a reality. One such thing is neurotechnology, where people are able to control devices just by thinking about them. This even extends to treating neurological diseases with a simple mind-to-machine connection. At the center of this, as mentioned above, are BCIs, devices that allow direct communication between the brain and external devices, opening many more doors within both the fields of neurology and technology.

BCIs work by detecting and interpreting electrical signals in the brain. This is done by using sensors that have the ability to measure neural activity, typically seen through an EEG (electroencephalography) or electrodes. These electrodes can be invasive, non-invasive, or semi-invasive, where the electrodes can be seen on the scalp, surgically implanted in the brain (skull or deeper neural tissue), or have a combination of both. The collected signals are processed by algorithms in order to translate the brain activity into commands or information that can control prosthetic limbs, computers, or even work towards helping restore speech for people with severe neurological conditions. Cochlear implants work in the same way through this technology, allowing those with hearing impairments the ability to hear!

For example, within the prosthetics industry, the algorithms interpret neural signals from the part of the brain that is associated with intended movement, allowing the user to control the limb in real-time. Similarly, for computers, these algorithms can enable users to type or control a cursor with their thoughts. Within speech restoration, BCIs analyze neural signals related to language and vocalization, potentially converting them into synthesized speech or text for individuals with severe neurological impairments.

Due to these applications, paralyzed individuals are now able to control robotic arms and wheelchairs simply by thinking about the movement, due to advancements in BCI technology. This technology is giving hope to those who have lost motor function due to injuries or diseases like ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis - a nervous system disease that weakens muscles and impacts physical function) and spinal cord injuries. In addition to this, BCI are able to further assist war veterans as well, many of whom have lost limbs or suffer from chronic pain from a variety of inflicted injuries.

Beyond assisting with physical movement, neurotechnology is also making strides in treating neurological diseases. BCIs can be used to manage conditions like epilepsy or Parkinson's disease by detecting abnormal brain activity and providing targeted stimulation to restore normal function. This type of neuromodulation holds the potential to reduce reliance on medications, which often have side effects, offering patients a more precise and personalized treatment approach.

The implications of neurotechnology go far beyond medical applications. Researchers are exploring ways to use BCIs to enhance cognitive functions, such as improving memory or enabling seamless communication between humans and computers. With new breakthroughs occurring regularly, neurotechnology and BCIs are actively working to redefine what's possible for human health, cognition, and interaction with the world.

Written by Hanaa Saleem from MEDILOQUY