Mind over matter: brain implant lets paralyzed patients control computers
NCT ID NCT00912041
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tests the safety and feasibility of the BrainGate2 system, a brain-computer interface. Tiny sensors are placed in the brain area that controls movement, allowing people with tetraplegia (paralysis of all four limbs) to control a computer cursor or other assistive devices using their thoughts alone. Up to 27 participants with conditions like spinal cord injury or ALS will be enrolled, and the study focuses on safety and proof of concept.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
BrainGate2 neural interface system (implanted brain sensors connected to a computer)
What this could lead to
If successful, this could lead to a way for people with paralysis to control computers, wheelchairs, or other assistive devices using only their thoughts.
What could go wrong
This is a very early feasibility study with only 27 participants. The device requires brain surgery, which carries risks like infection or bleeding. It may not work for everyone or lead to a widely available product.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Baylor College of Medicine
RECRUITINGHouston, Texas, 77030, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Emory University School of Medicine
RECRUITINGAtlanta, Georgia, 30322, United States
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Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Massachusetts General Hospital
RECRUITINGBoston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States
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Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Providence VA Medical Center
RECRUITINGProvidence, Rhode Island, 02908, United States
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Contact Email: •••••@•••••
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Stanford University School of Medicine
RECRUITINGStanford, California, 94305, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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University of California, Davis
RECRUITINGSacramento, California, 95817, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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