Creating a brain-computer interface to help people with spinal cord injuries control their hand movements
Official title: Development of an EMG-controlled BCI for biomimetic control of hand movement in humans
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10930831 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new device that helps people with serious spinal cord injuries control their hand movements using signals from their brain, making it easier for them to move their fingers and grip things naturally.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $614,416 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS131953-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10930831 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with high-level spinal cord injuries who have limited or no hand movement.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with low-level spinal cord injuries or those without significant motor impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop an innovative brain-computer interface (BCI) that allows individuals with high-level spinal cord injuries to control their hand movements more effectively. By utilizing electrical signals from the brain that correspond to muscle activity, the BCI will enable users to not only move their fingers but also control the force of their grip. The approach mimics the natural neuromuscular system, providing a more intuitive way for patients to interact with their environment. Participants will engage in activities that help train the system to interpret their intentions based on brain signals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance hand function and independence for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been advancements in brain-computer interfaces, this specific approach using EMG signals for intuitive control represents a novel and untested method.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Miller, Lee — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Miller, Lee
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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.