Using a brain-computer interface to help people with speech difficulties communicate

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study aims to enhance communication for individuals who have lost the ability to speak due to neurological conditions such as ALS or spinal cord injuries. It utilizes an implanted brain-computer interface (iBCI) that captures brain activity when participants attempt to speak, translating their intentions into computer-generated speech. By analyzing how brain cells work together to produce speech, the study seeks to improve the technology and understanding of speech production in affected individuals.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Between 18 and 80 years of age
* Clinical diagnosis of spinal cord injury, brainstem stroke, muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or other motor neuron disorders
* Complete or incomplete tetraplegia (quadriplegia)
* Must live within a three-hour drive of the Study site and geographically stable for at least 15 months after enrollment.

(There are additional inclusion criteria)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Visual impairment such that extended viewing of a computer monitor would be difficult even with ordinary corrective lenses
* Chronic oral or intravenous steroids or immunosuppressive therapy
* Other serious disease or disorder that could seriously affect ability to participate in the study

(There are additional exclusion criteria)

Where it's running

• University of California, Davis
  Sacramento, California, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Sergey Stavisky, Ph.D. — University of California, Davis
• Study coordinator: Leigh R. Hochberg, M.D., Ph.D.
• Email: lhochberg@mgh.harvard.edu
• Phone: 617-724-9247

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.