~1 spots leftby Jun 2026

Brain-Computer Interface for Paralysis

KJ
Overseen ByKate J Barnabe, MHA
Age: 18+
Sex: Any
Travel: May Be Covered
Time Reimbursement: Varies
Trial Phase: Academic
Waitlist Available
Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development
No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

VA research has been advancing a high-performance brain-computer interface (BCI) to improve independence for Veterans and others living with tetraplegia or the inability to speak resulting from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spinal cord injury or stoke. In this project, the investigators enhance deep learning neural network decoders and multi-state gesture decoding for increased accuracy and reliability and deploy them on a battery-powered mobile BCI device for independent use of computers and touch-enabled mobile devices at home. The accuracy and usability of the mobile iBCI will be evaluated with participants already enrolled separately in the investigational clinical trial of the BrainGate neural interface.

Research Team

JD

John D Simeral, PhD

Principal Investigator

Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, RI

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for Veterans with severe paralysis or inability to speak due to conditions like ALS, spinal cord injury, stroke, and muscular dystrophy. Participants must have little or no use of their arms and legs.

Inclusion Criteria

I cannot use my arms and legs due to paralysis.

Treatment Details

Interventions

  • Mobile iBCI (Neural Interface)
Trial OverviewThe study tests a mobile brain-computer interface (iBCI) designed to help paralyzed individuals operate computers and mobile devices using their thoughts. The device's accuracy and ease of use will be evaluated at home by participants.
Participant Groups
1Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Group I: Evaluation of an enhanced iBCIExperimental Treatment1 Intervention
Performance of new decoding algorithms and methods will be developed and embedded in a small, mobile neural processor. The utility of these will be assessed separately with participants in the BrainGate pilot clinical trial, IDE.

Find a Clinic Near You

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

VA Office of Research and Development

Lead Sponsor

Trials
1,691
Recruited
3,759,000+