Though still a long way from being tested in humans, the implant
demonstrates for the first time that a cognitive function can be
improved with a device that mimics the firing patterns of
neurons. In recent years neuroscientists have developed implants
that allow paralyzed people to move prosthetic limbs or a
computer cursor, using their thoughts to activate the machines.
In the new work, being published Friday, researchers at Wake
Forest University and the University of Southern California used
some of the same techniques to read neural activity. But they
translated those signals internally, to improve brain function
rather than to activate outside appendages. “It’s technically
very impressive to pull something like this off, given our
current level of technology,” said Daryl Kipke, a professor of
bioengineering at the University of Michigan who was not
involved in the experiment. “We are just scratching the surface
when it comes to interacting with the brain, but this experiment
shows what’s possible and th