Core Insights - The world's first multi-center clinical trial for a neural interface targeting hydrocephalus has been launched, marking a significant advancement in brain-machine interface technology beyond traditional applications [3][4][5] - The project involves leading medical institutions in China and aims to establish Chinese standards and solutions for precision treatment in neurological disorders [3][4] - Recent breakthroughs in cognitive science and brain-machine interfaces are opening new avenues for understanding brain functions and enhancing patient care [3][4] Group 1: Neural Interface Technology - The "North Brain No. 1" intelligent brain-machine system allows patients with conditions like ALS and spinal cord injuries to control devices using their thoughts, demonstrating promising clinical outcomes [5][6] - This system is a semi-invasive product that does not penetrate brain tissue, ensuring high safety and simplicity in surgical procedures [5][6] - The initial clinical trials have shown a high success rate, with over 98% of effective channels maintained after 7 months in the first patient [6] Group 2: Neuromorphic Computing - The "Wukong" neuromorphic computing system developed by Zhejiang University aims to simulate brain functions and enhance intelligent computing capabilities [7][8] - This system features advanced hardware with over 20 billion pulse neurons and a power consumption of approximately 2000 watts, making it one of the most efficient neuromorphic computers [7][8] - It has the potential to accelerate brain science research and reduce reliance on animal testing by simulating various animal brains [8][9] Group 3: Brain Imaging Technology - The development of a wearable atomic magnetometer for brain magnetometry allows for more precise and mobile brain activity monitoring, which can aid in diagnosing brain diseases [10][11] - This technology significantly reduces the cost and complexity of brain scans, making it accessible for large-scale screening of conditions like autism and Alzheimer's disease [10][11] - The system's portability and ease of use are expected to enhance early diagnosis and intervention for various neurological disorders [11] Group 4: Olfactory Function Assessment - A localized olfactory function assessment and training system has been developed to detect early signs of neurodegenerative diseases through changes in smell [12][13] - This system can provide early warnings for conditions like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, potentially allowing for earlier intervention [12][13] - The training program is designed to be user-friendly and can be conducted via a mobile application, creating a feedback loop for monitoring and intervention [12][13]

Core Insights - The rapid development of brain science in China over the past decade has been significantly driven by breakthroughs in interdisciplinary technologies such as imaging, molecular biology, and artificial intelligence [1] Group 1: Innovations in Brain Science - The "North Brain No. 1" intelligent brain-machine system is the first international semi-invasive brain-machine interface product that achieves over 100 channels of high-throughput, wireless implantation, aimed at helping patients with motor and speech disabilities due to spinal cord injuries, strokes, and ALS [1][3] - The "Wukong" ultra-large-scale neuromorphic brain computer, developed by Zhejiang University, features a neuron scale close to that of a monkey brain and can complete simulation tasks in one minute that traditional computers take a day to perform [4] - A wearable atomic magnetometer brain magnetometry system has been developed to overcome the high cost and low flexibility of traditional brain magnetometry, making it applicable in various fields such as brain science research and brain-machine interface [4][6] Group 2: Clinical Applications and Benefits - The "North Brain No. 1" has been implanted in five patients, primarily benefiting those with motor disabilities from spinal cord injuries and strokes, demonstrating not only functional replacement but also rehabilitation effects [3] - The system has shown a signal quality stability of over 98% six months post-implantation, indicating its effectiveness in clinical applications [1] - A localized olfactory function assessment and training system has been developed to provide early warning solutions for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, achieving international leading levels in reliability and validity [6]