Exploring a device to help paralyzed patients speak again
A Pilot Clinical Trial for Speech Neuroprosthesis
['FUNDING_U01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11035240
This study is exploring a new device that helps people who can't speak due to brain injuries communicate again by using brain signals, and it's specifically for individuals who are paralyzed.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_U01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11035240 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This pilot trial aims to test a new speech neuroprosthesis designed for individuals who have lost the ability to communicate due to neurological injuries. The research will involve implanting a high-density electrode array on the surface of the brain to capture neural signals associated with speech. Using advanced algorithms, the team will decode these signals to facilitate communication through text or synthesized speech. The study focuses on a small group of paralyzed patients to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of this innovative technology.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have lost their ability to speak due to conditions like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or severe brain injuries.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced neurological injuries or those with conditions that do not affect speech production may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enable paralyzed patients to regain their ability to communicate effectively.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using neural interfaces for speech decoding, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHANG, EDWARD — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: CHANG, EDWARD
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 below.
Conditions: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Motor Neuron Disease