Recruiting

Brain implant to help people control devices with their thoughts

Plain-English translation of NCT06992596 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated June 2025 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This trial is testing the Neuralink N1 Implant, a wireless device placed on your skull with tiny electrode threads inserted into your brain by a robotic surgical system. The implant is designed to read signals from your brain and allow you to control external devices—like a computer cursor or robotic arm—using only your thoughts. Researchers want to see if this treatment is safe and if it works well enough to help people with severe paralysis regain some independence.

People with severe paralysis from spinal cord injuries, strokes, or progressive diseases like ALS often lose the ability to move or communicate. This trial exists to find out whether a brain implant could bypass damaged nerves and restore the ability to control external devices, potentially giving people back some independence and quality of life.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have had a spinal cord injury for more than 12 months, a stroke more than 12 months ago, or another neurological condition that has caused paralysis in both your upper arms with no expectation of recovery
you have been diagnosed with ALS or another progressive neurological disease where your doctor expects you will develop severe arm paralysis within one year
you have a life expectancy of at least 12 months
you can communicate verbally or using a computer or communication device, and you speak English
you have a stable caregiver who can support you throughout the trial

You likely don't qualify if…

you are at moderate to high risk for serious complications from surgery
you have poorly controlled seizures, epilepsy, or diabetes
you need MRI scans for ongoing medical conditions (the implant is not MRI-compatible)
you smoke tobacco or use tobacco products more than once a month
you have a psychiatric or psychological condition that would make it unsafe for you to participate

What participation looks like

If you are enrolled, you will undergo surgery to have the N1 Implant placed on your skull and electrode threads inserted into your brain using a robotic surgical system. After recovery, you will work with the research team to learn how to use the implant to control external devices with your thoughts. The trial will involve regular clinic visits to monitor your safety, test the implant's function, and adjust settings as needed. The exact duration and number of visits will depend on the trial protocol, but expect ongoing follow-up care to ensure the implant is working safely.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 1, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(1 site)

United Arab Emirates

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi (CCAD), Abu Dhabi