Phoenix-based Barrow Neurological Institute was chosen as the inaugural site for the Neuralink PRIME Study.
The study will examine Elon Musk's Neuralink implant in patients who have quadriplegia due to vertical spinal cord injury or ALS, according to an April 12 news release. Neuralink has already seen one spine patient benefit from the implant so far. The first implantation was completed in January.
The PRIME Study will include patients 22 years and older who have caregivers to support their participation.
"When an injury occurs to the essential nervous system, it can disrupt this entire communication process," neurosurgeon Rory Murphy, MD, an investigator in the study, said in the release. "This can affect a person's ability to perform everyday tasks. We remain hopeful that a BCI device may enable a digital bridge between the brain and spinal cord to potentially improve the quality of life for people with severe spinal cord injuries."
Mr. Musk's Neuralink has come a long way since its launch. It earned approval for its clinical trials in 2023 but also faced skepticism and concern from physician experts.