科技“智”疗创造生命奇迹

Core Insights - The Beijing Brain Science and Brain-like Research Institute is making significant advancements in brain-machine interface (BMI) technology, which is crucial for improving the quality of life for patients with severe neurological conditions [2][4][6] - The institute has developed the "North Brain No. 1" system, which is the first high-throughput, wireless, fully implanted BMI system with over 100 channels, and it has entered clinical verification stages [2][4] - The research focuses on four main areas: brain cognitive principles, major brain diseases, new technologies in neuroscience, and neural decoding and computation [6][7] Group 1: Brain-Machine Interface Developments - The "North Brain No. 1" system allows for real-time decoding of brain signals, enabling patients to control devices through thought, with a notable accuracy of 63% in decoding common phrases for patients with speech impairments [3][4] - The institute has successfully completed surgeries for five patients with spinal cord injuries and ALS, demonstrating significant improvements in motor functions and the ability to perform tasks previously impossible [3][4] - The upcoming "North Brain No. 2" system aims to implant electrodes deeper into brain tissue for more precise signal capture, enhancing the control capabilities for patients [4] Group 2: Gene Therapy Innovations - The institute is also pioneering gene therapy techniques to treat conditions such as severe epilepsy and vision loss, with a new drug that can be injected directly into the epilepsy focus area to control seizures while preserving normal neural function [7] - A novel light-sensitive protein has been developed for visual restoration in patients with retinal diseases, showing significant improvements in vision for treated patients [6][7] - The institute has established a biotechnology company to facilitate the transition from basic research to clinical applications, aiming to shorten the time for technology commercialization [7]