Using a brain-computer interface to help people with severe paralysis communicate
SWITCH Trial: Early Feasibility Study of Stentrode BCI for Augmentative Communication
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · CARNEGIE-MELLON UNIVERSITY · NIH-10900784
This study is testing a special device called Stentrode that helps people with severe paralysis, like those with ALS, communicate and use technology just by thinking, making it easier for them to connect with others and improve their daily lives.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CARNEGIE-MELLON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10900784 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of an implantable Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) called Stentrode, which allows individuals with severe paralysis to control communication devices using their neural signals. The Stentrode system is delivered via a catheter and implanted in the brain, where it captures signals from the motor cortex. These signals are then transmitted wirelessly to a mobile device, enabling users to send messages and operate assistive technologies. The goal is to improve the quality of life for patients who have lost the ability to speak or use their hands due to conditions like ALS.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with severe paralysis, particularly those who have lost the ability to speak or use their upper limbs due to conditions like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Not a fit: Patients who do not have severe paralysis or those with conditions that do not affect communication abilities may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance communication abilities for patients with severe paralysis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous early feasibility trials have shown promise in using BCIs for communication, indicating that this approach has potential based on prior successes.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- CARNEGIE-MELLON UNIVERSITY — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WEBER, DOUGLAS J — CARNEGIE-MELLON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: WEBER, DOUGLAS J
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