UC Davis researchers have restored the speech of an ALS patient using a brain-computer interface (BCI). The BCI translates brain signals into speech, a significant advancement in restoring communication.
Why it matters
This biotechnology restores ALS patients' ability to communicate, transforming their lives.
How it works
- Four microelectrode arrays are implanted in the left precentral gyrus of the brain
- The device records brain activity from 256 cortical electrodes.
- It interprets brain signals when the user attempts to speak.
- The signals are converted into text, which is then 'spoken' aloud by a computer.
Young-onset ALS accounts for about 10% of all ALS cases
A closer look
Casey Harrell, a 45-year-old man with ALS volunteered for the study. His speech had become nearly unintelligible. After implanting the BCI device in his brain, Harrell communicated effectively within minutes of turning the system on.
By the numbers
- The first session achieved 99.6% word accuracy with a 50-word vocabulary in 30 minutes.
- The second session, expanded to 125,000 words, achieved 90.2% accuracy after 1.4 hours of training.
- With more practice, the BCI maintained 97.5% accuracy.
The takeaway
This application of BCI technology is a remarkable advancement in restoring communication. It offers hope for a better quality of life and social reintegration for people with ALS and other speech-paralyzing conditions.
