Blending of brain-machine interface and vision-guided autonomous robotics improves neuroprosthetic arm performance during grasping.
John E Downey, Jeffrey M Weiss, Katharina Muelling...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26987662/Actively Recruiting
Led by Michael Boninger · Updated on 2026-05-20
30
Participants Needed
2
Research Sites
121 weeks
Total Duration
This research focuses on individuals with severe paralysis who have intact brain function but cannot move due to injuries or diseases affecting the spinal cord, nerves, or muscles. The study aims to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of using two CRS Arrays microelectrodes implanted in the brain to record motor cortex activity and provide sensory cortex microstimulation. This technology is known as a brain-machine interface BMI, which interprets neural signals to control external devices and mimics sensory input through microstimulation. Participants will receive implantation of two Blackrock Microsystems CRS Arrays, one in the motor cortex and one in the sensory cortex. There is no control group all participants will be implanted with these microelectrodes. The study involves long-term recording of neural activity and training participants to use the BMI technology for controlling devices. The intervention period includes implantation and follow-up monitoring. During the study, participants will undergo assessments including functional magnetic resonance imaging fMRI to evaluate cortical activation, neuropsychological and psychosocial evaluations, and safety monitoring for one year following array implantation. Researchers will measure both safety and the efficacy of the arrays in recording neural activity and enabling control of external devices. Participants are expected to stay near the research site for training and follow-up visits over the study period, which lasts at least 18 months.
CONDITIONS
Cortical Recording and Stimulating Array Brain-Machine Interface
O
Olivia L Campbell
D
Debbie Harrington
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Michael Boninger
Lead Sponsor
University of Chicago
Collaborating Sponsor
This table compares participation in this trial with other options available for this condition. The information is drawn from published research and the trial’s study details and is provided for educational purposes only.
| Factors | Intracortical CRS Arrays (investigational) | Current assistive technologies (contextual) |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | An investigational brain-machine interface involving surgical implantation of two intracortical CRS microelectrode arrays into motor and sensory cortex | Existing assistive options include prosthetic arms or external neuroprosthetic systems that detect movement intention via noninvasive methods |
| Role in trial | Main investigational device implanted and evaluated for safety and long-term recording | Not part of trial, but represent current options outside the study |
| Primary use | Intended to enable neural recording for long-term control of external devices and safety evaluation | Used to restore limb function through external interface control, often noninvasively |
| How it is given or performed | Surgically implanted intracortical arrays targeting motor and sensory cortex | Usually worn or attached externally and controlled via noninvasive signals such as EMG or EEG |
| Evidence status | Trial ongoing; primary safety outcome defined but results not yet reported in registry | External neuroprosthetic and prosthetic technologies supported by peer-reviewed publications demonstrating long-term recording and device control |
| Important risks | Surgical implantation carries risks including infection, device failure and neurovascular complications | Generally lower-risk as noninvasive, though may include skin irritation or user fatigue from external wear |
| Important limitations | Highly invasive procedure with uncertain long-term durability and unknown clinical benefit in functional tasks | External assistance may offer limited degrees of freedom and rely on remaining muscular or EEG signals that may be unreliable |
Disclaimer: This comparison is created with the help of artificial intelligence(AI) and may contain errors or missing information. It is not medical advice and does not mean one option is better or safer than another. Clinical trials are still being studied, and joining a trial is your choice. Please consult your healthcare professional before making any decisions.
You may qualify if you...
You will not qualify if you...
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - Day of surgery plus immediate recovery period
Participants undergo implantation of two microelectrode arrays into the motor and sensory cortex of the brain.
1 visit (in-person) for surgery and immediate postoperative care
Duration - Up to 1 year following implantation
Participants are monitored for safety and efficacy of the implanted arrays, including training to use the brain-machine interface to control external devices.
Regular visits for follow-up assessments and training sessions over 12 months
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
NA
Model
SINGLE_GROUP
Primary Purpose
OTHER
Number of Arms
1
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https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30429772/Michael Boninger
Lead Sponsor
University of Chicago
Collaborating Sponsor