Developing algorithms to restore complex movement after paralysis using non-invasive sensors in healthy volunteers
Official title: Restoring Complex Movement and Locomotion After Paralysis Through Collaborative Copilots: Algorithm Development With Healthy Participants
Run by University of California, Los Angeles · NCT07236892 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project tests whether signals from non-invasive sensors worn by healthy volunteers can train algorithms to control computers or assistive devices that might help people with paralysis.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of California, Los Angeles Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Los Angeles, California) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 26, 2025 |
| Main results expected | December 1, 2029 |
| Study ends | December 1, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | December 24, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT07236892 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults who are fluent in English, do not have neurological injuries causing functional paralysis, and can attend sessions at the UCLA Neural Engineering and Computation Lab in Los Angeles.
✕Probably not a fit
People with functional paralysis from neurological injury are excluded and will not benefit directly from participating in this healthy-volunteer algorithm development work.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Healthy participants will wear combinations of non-invasive sensors such as EEG, EMG, fNIRS, inertial measurement units, eye tracking, pupillometry, and speech microphones while they perform, imagine, or attempt movements and speech. The recorded signals will be decoded using machine learning to map motor intent to commands for an end effector, which could include a computer interface, robotic arm, or wheelchair. Experiments may involve different sensor combinations and repeated sessions to compare decoding approaches and refine algorithms. The procedures are non-invasive, present minimal risk, and participants may withdraw at any time or return for additional sessions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could produce improved control algorithms that enable more natural and precise operation of assistive devices for people with paralysis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous non-invasive brain–computer interface and sensor-fusion studies have shown partial success decoding intent for simple device control, but restoring complex multi-joint movement remains challenging and this approach builds on promising but not definitive results.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Fluent in the English language Exclusion Criteria: * Neurological injury or disease that results in functional paralysis
Where it's running
-
UCLA Neural Engineering and Computation Lab
Los Angeles, California, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jonathan Kao, PhD — UCLA Neural Engineering and Computation Lab
- Study coordinator: Restoring Movement Study Coordinator
- Email: restoringmovementstudy@gmail.com
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.