Scientists enabled ALS patient Casey Harrell to speak again after years

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, or ALS, is defined as a progressive disease that affects motor neurons. This causes loss of control of the muscles and ultimately leads to muscle weakness and paralysis. On the other hand, it causes patients to lose their ability to move, speak and even breathe.

Scientists at the University of California have made a significant breakthrough in ALS. Scientists have ALS Casey HarrellIt enabled him to speak again after many years. Harrell had lost his ability to speak due to his illness; However, thanks to a chip implanted in his brain, he can now speak clearly.

Last year, electrodes were surgically implanted into Harrell’s brain. These electrodes interpret brain signals and transform them into spoken words with the help of artificial intelligence. Thanks to this technology, Harrell can express his thoughts out loud by imitating his own voice.

UC Davis Neurosurgeon Dr. David Brandmanstated that this technology offers great hope for people who have lost the ability to speak and that they hope it will be used for more patients in the future.

Such technologies may offer promising treatment options not only for individuals who have lost the ability to speak, but also for patients with other neurological and physical disabilities.

As a reminder, the studies carried out in this field attract attention. In January this year, Elon Musk announced that one of the Neuralink chips was successfully implanted into a human brain for the first time. explained. However, it was not stated who the patient was. Two months later, the company released a live video showing the results of the experiment it conducted on its first brain implant patient, 29-year-old Noland Arbaugh. shared.

Thanks to this device, Arbaugh was able to play video games and share on social media. Earlier this month, Neuralink made a significant breakthrough by placing a brain implant in a second patient. took a step.