Elon Musk’s Neuralink announced on Wednesday that it has obtained approval to conduct its first clinical trial in Canada. The trial will focus on a device designed to enable paralysed individuals to control digital devices through thought alone.
The study will evaluate the safety and initial functionality of Neuralink’s implant, which aims to assist individuals with quadriplegia—paralysis of all four limbs—in using external devices via thought control.
Toronto’s University Health Network hospital confirmed in a separate statement that its facility had been chosen to carry out the complex neurosurgical procedure required for the implant.
Health Canada, the country’s regulatory body, did not immediately comment on the announcement.
In the United States, Neuralink has already implanted the device in two patients. According to the company, the device is performing well for the second patient, who has been using it to play video games and learn 3D design techniques.
Founded in 2016 by Musk and a team of engineers, Neuralink is developing a brain chip interface designed to be implanted within the skull. The company envisions the technology eventually enabling disabled patients to move and communicate again, as well as restoring vision.
In September, Neuralink’s experimental implant targeting vision restoration received the US Food and Drug Administration’s “breakthrough device” designation.