Mind-Reading brain chip could give voice to the voiceless

NCT ID NCT05724173

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Leigh R. Hochberg, MD, PhD. Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This early-stage study tests a brain implant called BrainGate in just 3 people with severe paralysis or speech loss from conditions like ALS or spinal cord injury. The goal is to see if the device is safe and can let users control a computer cursor or other tools by thought alone. If it works, it may eventually help people communicate without moving or speaking.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: BrainGate Neural Interface System (brain implant)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could pave the way for a device that lets people with severe paralysis communicate using only their thoughts.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, tiny trial (only 3 people) focused on safety and feasibility. The technology may not work as hoped, and brain surgery carries risks like infection or bleeding.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

amyotrophic lateral sclerosis brain stem infarction Dysarthria locked-in syndrome muscular dystrophy quadriplegia speech disorder spinal cord injury

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

AMYOTROPHIC LATERAL SCLEROSIS ANARTHRIA BRAIN STEM INFARCTIONS DYSARTHRIA LOCKED-IN SYNDROME MUSCULAR DYSTROPHIES SPINAL CORD INJURIES TETRAPLEGIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Massachusetts General Hospital
RECRUITING

Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States
Stanford University School of Medicine
RECRUITING

Stanford, California, 94305, United States

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