The Future of Neuroengineering: The Possibility of a Brain-computer Interface

bbc.co.uk

Researchers, scientists, and engineers are getting closer to developing an interface between the human brain and a computer that can put people's thoughts in digitized form. Dr. Curtis Cripe has mentioned before that this is especially helpful for people who cannot communicate, such as patients struggling with complete locked-in syndrome.

Checking all possibilities

Researchers and engineers have tried to see if an interface that uses functional near-infrared spectroscopy, or NIRS, would work. Through this method, they would measure brain hemodynamic responses that are usually associated with neuronal activity.

Scientists have also tried to use brain-computer interfaces that depend on neuroelectrical technology, like an electroencephalogram or EEG, though the endeavor ultimately failed in its goal of helping completely locked-in syndrome patients communicate.

A glimpse into the future

This latest technique, though, as Dr. Curtis Cripe mentions, seemed to produce a hopeful outcome. It is a non-invasive brain-computer interface that combines NIRS and EEG technologies. This method measures frontocentral blood oxygen levels and electrical changes that occur in the brain.

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Brain-computer interfaces have helped patients communicate in the past; however, Dr. Curtis Cripe says that the NIRS is the only technique that works on people with complete lock-in syndrome.

Just the beginning

This also comes as very welcome news for people unable to communicate because of other health reasons such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or ALS, which can lead to paralysis, or those paralyzed because of a stroke or a spinal cord injury.

Finally, Dr. Curtis Cripe points out that this is just the beginning, and studies on brain-computer interfaces are projected to have even broader applications in the future.

Dr. Curtis Cripe is the head of research and development at NTL Group, which is made up of an international team of neuroengineers and neuroscientists from multiple disciplines to bring the latest in neurotechnology and programs. In Dr. Cripe's series of posts here, he shares his insights on neuroscience, neuroengineering, psychology, and other related subjects.