A new device to help decode speech from brain signals
Official title: DIrectional and SCalable (DISC) Microelectrode Array for Speech Decoding
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10771129 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new device that helps people with speech difficulties, like aphasia and dysarthria, communicate better by tapping into deeper parts of the brain that are important for speaking.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,670,599 |
| NIH project number | 5UG3NS125487-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10771129 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with aphasia, dysarthria, or locked-in syndrome who have difficulty with speech production.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with speech disorders not related to brain function, such as those caused by physical obstructions or non-neurological conditions, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel brain-computer interface (BCI) device designed to improve speech decoding for individuals with conditions like aphasia and dysarthria. The device, called the DISC microelectrode array, aims to access deeper brain regions that are crucial for speech production, which traditional devices often cannot reach. By utilizing advanced technology to enhance signal quality and separation, the research seeks to improve communication capabilities for patients with severe speech impairments. The team will conduct tests to evaluate the device's effectiveness in decoding speech both in controlled settings and in real-time applications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance communication abilities for patients with speech disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been advancements in brain-computer interfaces, this specific approach using a directional and scalable microelectrode array is novel and has not been extensively tested in this context.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Seymour, John P — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Seymour, John P
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.