Recruiting

Brain implant to help people control computers with their thoughts

Plain-English translation of NCT07127172 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated August 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 that connects to tiny electrode threads inserted into your brain by a specialized robot. The goal is to see whether this brain-computer interface can safely help people who have lost the ability to move their arms and hands — due to spinal cord injury, stroke, ALS, or similar conditions — regain control over computers, tablets, and other external devices using only their thoughts.

Many people with severe paralysis are completely cut off from the ability to use technology independently, which limits their communication, work, and quality of life. This trial exists to explore whether a brain implant could safely restore that control and give people back some independence.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have a spinal cord injury, brain stem stroke, or other neurological condition that has caused you to lose the ability to move both arms and hands, with no expectation of recovery
you have been diagnosed with ALS or another progressive neurological condition and your doctor expects you will lose arm and hand function within one year
you have a life expectancy of at least 12 months
you are able to communicate in English
you have a stable caregiver who can help support you during and after the study

You likely don't qualify if…

you have conditions that would make surgery very risky for you
you have active implanted devices in your body
you have poorly controlled seizures, epilepsy, or diabetes
you use tobacco or smoking products
you have a brain MRI showing bleeding, tumors, or structural problems that would make implantation unsafe

What participation looks like

If you are accepted into the study, you would undergo surgery to have the Neuralink N1 Implant placed on your skull, with electrode threads inserted into your brain using the robotic device. After surgery, you would work with the research team during follow-up visits to learn how to use your thoughts to control external devices like computers. The study is small — only 7 people total — and is focused on checking whether the implant is safe and works as intended.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 4, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(2 sites)

United Kingdom

University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, Greater London

The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear