Improving communication for ALS patients using brain-controlled interfaces
Official title: Metrics for Brain Controlled Communication: A comprehensive review of clinical outcome assessments for communication brain computer interfaces in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Funded at Blackrock Microsystems · NIH-10931572 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special brain-computer interfaces can help people with ALS communicate better, so they can share their thoughts and feelings more easily and improve their quality of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Blackrock Microsystems NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $299,188 |
| NIH project number | 5UH3FD008137-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10931572 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis who experience severe communication limitations due to their condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage ALS or those without significant communication impairments may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing and validating communication brain-computer interfaces (cBCIs) for individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a condition that severely limits motor function and communication abilities. By creating a comprehensive knowledge base on how cBCIs can enhance communication for ALS patients, the project aims to establish standardized clinical outcome assessments that reflect the needs and experiences of patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers. The methodology includes evaluating patient perceptions and the effectiveness of cBCIs in facilitating communication, ultimately aiming to improve quality of life for those affected by ALS.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance communication abilities for ALS patients, improving their quality of life and reducing caregiver burden.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research with brain-computer interface technologies has shown promising results in restoring communication for locked-in ALS patients, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Blackrock Microsystems
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kellis, Spencer — Blackrock Microsystems
- Study coordinator: Kellis, Spencer
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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.