Making brain-controlled movement devices more reliable for people with paralysis
Optimizing co-adaptation in motor BCIs by uncovering brain-decoder interactions
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11179192
Developing brain-controlled movement systems that stay accurate and stable over time for people with paralysis.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11179192 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project looks at how the brain and the decoding software of motor brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) change together during extended use. Using animal experiments, the team will track how neural activity adapts and how different decoder updates shape that adaptation. They will test algorithm designs and training strategies intended to prevent reliance on only a few neural signals and to reduce failures when signals are lost or task demands change. The aim is to build engineering tools that harness brain plasticity to keep BCIs working reliably across days and real-world settings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with moderate to severe paralysis who might one day use implanted or assisted brain-controlled movement devices are the eventual candidates for this line of work.
Not a fit: People without paralysis or those who are not candidates for implanted BCIs for medical or surgical reasons are unlikely to benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could produce BCIs that remain dependable in daily life and are less likely to fail when brain signals shift, improving independence for people with paralysis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous BCI work has enabled people with paralysis to control cursors and robotic limbs, but long-term reliability across days and contexts remains a major unresolved challenge.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ORSBORN, AMY L — UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
- Study coordinator: ORSBORN, AMY L
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.