Improving a Mobile Brain-Computer Interface for Veterans with Paralysis
Enhancement and optimization of a mobile iBCI for Veterans with paralysis
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · PROVIDENCE VA MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11193231
This work is making a portable brain-computer interface better and easier to use for Veterans who have paralysis from conditions like spinal cord injury, stroke, or ALS.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | PROVIDENCE VA MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11193231 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We are working to improve a special device called an intracortical brain-computer interface (iBCI) that helps people with paralysis control assistive technologies using their thoughts. This device uses tiny sensors placed in the brain to pick up signals from imagined movements, which can then command computers, virtual keyboards, or robotic arms. Our goal is to make this iBCI mobile, high-performing, reliable, and intuitive so that individuals can use it independently at home. We are taking new discoveries from earlier work and adapting them to create a stable and effective mobile iBCI system.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for future involvement would be Veterans living with paralysis due to spinal cord injury, stroke, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Not a fit: Patients who do not have paralysis or severe motor disability would not directly benefit from this specific assistive technology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this technology could offer greater independence and improved communication for Veterans living with severe motor disabilities.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has shown that iBCIs allow people with tetraplegia to control computers and assistive devices with their thoughts, and this project builds on those successes.
Where this research is happening
PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES
- PROVIDENCE VA MEDICAL CENTER — PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SIMERAL, JOHN DAVID — PROVIDENCE VA MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: SIMERAL, JOHN DAVID
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