Robotically implanted brain-computer interface for controlling devices
Official title: CAN-PRIME: An Early Feasibility Study of a Precise Robotically Implanted Brain-Computer Interface for the Control of External Devices
Run by Neuralink Corp · NCT06700304 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new brain implant and robot to see if they can help people with severe movement limitations control devices more easily.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 19 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 6 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Neuralink Corp Industry-sponsored |
| Locations | 1 site (Toronto, Ontario) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 20, 2024 |
| Main results expected | November 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | November 30, 2030 |
| Registry record updated | May 31, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06700304 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals with severe quadriplegia due to spinal cord injury or ALS, who have had limited or no movement for at least one year.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with moderate to high risk for serious perioperative adverse events or those with active implanted devices may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study tests the safety and functionality of Neuralink's N1 Implant and R1 Robot in individuals with severe movement limitations due to conditions like tetraplegia or ALS. The N1 Implant is a small, wireless device implanted in the skull, which connects to fine threads inserted into the brain by the R1 Robot. The goal is to evaluate how effectively the implant and robot work together to assist patients in controlling external devices. Participants will be monitored for safety and functionality over the course of the study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this technology could significantly enhance the quality of life for patients with severe mobility impairments by enabling them to control devices with their thoughts.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies involving brain-computer interfaces have shown promise, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Severe quadriplegia (tetraplegia) due to spinal cord injury or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) for at least 1 year without improvement, where quadriplegia is defined as having very limited or no hand, wrist, and arm movement and all levels below * Life expectancy ≥ 12 months. * Ability to communicate in English * Presence of a stable caregiver Exclusion Criteria: * Moderate to high risk for serious perioperative adverse events * Active implanted devices * Morbid obesity (Body Mass Index \> 40) * History of poorly controlled seizures or epilepsy * History of poorly controlled diabetes * Requires magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for any ongoing medical conditions * Acquired or hereditary immunosuppression * Use of smoking tobacco or other tobacco products * Psychiatric or psychological disorder * Brain MRI demonstrating hemorrhage, tumor, distorted or adverse anatomy. * Any condition which, in the opinion of the Investigator, would compromise your ability to safely participate in the study or undergo the implantation procedure
Where it's running
-
University Health Network
Toronto, Ontario, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Neuralink Clinical Team
- Email: clinical-team-ct@neuralink.com
- Phone: (877) 398-4465
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Implanted Brain-Computer Interface to Help People with Severe Arm Impairment
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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.