Developing a brain-computer interface for Veterans with ALS to improve communication
Official title: Rapid Neural Typing Interface for Veterans with ALS
Funded at Providence VA Medical Center · NIH-11052613 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new device that helps Veterans with ALS communicate better by letting them use their thoughts to control technology, like typing on a screen, which could really improve their daily lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Providence VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01RX004820-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052613 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans diagnosed with ALS who experience significant communication challenges due to paralysis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have ALS or those without significant motor impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating an advanced brain-computer interface (BCI) that allows Veterans with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to communicate more effectively. By decoding neural signals, the BCI will enable users to control assistive technologies using their imagined hand and finger movements. The project aims to enhance communication rates through a novel typing interface that combines hand and digit movements, allowing for intuitive control of on-screen keyboards and trackpads. This innovative approach could significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with paralysis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide Veterans with ALS a faster and more intuitive way to communicate, greatly enhancing their independence and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research with brain-computer interfaces has shown promising results in enabling communication for individuals with paralysis, indicating a strong potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Providence VA Medical Center
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hochberg, Leigh R — Providence VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Hochberg, Leigh R
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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.