并非“脑洞大开”！中国脑机接口成功让瘫痪患者“脑控”轮椅遛弯

Core Insights - The article highlights the successful implementation of an invasive brain-machine interface (BMI) system that allows high-level paraplegic patients to control devices like electric wheelchairs and robotic dogs using their thoughts, marking a significant advancement in medical technology [1][2]. Group 1: Clinical Trials and Technological Advancements - The second invasive BMI clinical trial was successfully conducted by a team from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Fudan University, following the first trial in June, which focused on enabling a patient to control electronic devices [1][2]. - The upgraded BMI system, WRS02, has improved data reading rates by four times compared to its predecessor, aiming to facilitate clinical applications and collaborations with various smart devices [2][3]. Group 2: Patient Experience and Control Capabilities - The second patient, who suffered from high-level paraplegia due to a spinal injury, was able to control physical devices after a few weeks of training, expanding his interaction with the physical world beyond electronic screens [3][8]. - The technology team achieved breakthroughs in decoding complex neural signals, enhancing the control experience by reducing latency to under 100 milliseconds, allowing for a more natural interaction with devices [9][10]. Group 3: Future Directions and Ethical Considerations - The research team envisions a future where BMI technology can restore motor and language functions on a large scale within three years, with further advancements in sensory restoration and mental health treatment in the following years [10][11]. - Ethical concerns regarding the use of BMI technology, particularly in enhancing normal human capabilities, are raised, emphasizing the need for clear guidelines on its application [11][12]. Group 4: Industry Collaboration and Talent Development - The success of BMI technology is closely linked to the development of external smart devices, with the team actively collaborating with manufacturers to create a unified control protocol [12][19]. - There is a call for nurturing young talent from the industry to drive innovation in the BMI field, as current research is primarily concentrated in academic institutions [12][19].