Elon Musk's company Neuralink received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on May 25 to begin the first human trials.
"We are excited to share the news that we have received FDA approval to start the first clinical trials on humans. This is the result of the incredible work of the Neuralink team in close collaboration with the FDA. This is the first step that will eventually allow technology to help many people," the company stated.
It was emphasized that recruitment for the trials has not yet begun, and the company will provide more information about the planned studies in the near future.
Neuralink attempted to obtain approval for human trials last year, but their request was rejected by the FDA. The FDA identified a number of issues related to the implants that the company intends to implant in the brain, such as the lithium battery in the device and the problem of safely removing it without damaging brain tissue. The agency refused to grant approval until the company resolves these issues.