The development of brain-machine interface neuroprosthetic devices

Summary: The development of brain-machine interface tech-nology is a logical next step in the overall direction of neuro-prosthetics. Many of the required technological advances that will be required for clinical translation of brain-machine inter-faces are already under development, including a new genera-tion of recording electrodes, the decoding and interpretation of signals underlying intention and planning, actuators for imple-mentation of mental plans in virtual or real contexts, direct somatosensory feedback to the nervous system to refine ac-tions, and training to encourage plasticity in neural circuits. Although pre-clinical studies in nonhuman primates demon-strate high efficacy in a realistic motor task with motor cortical recordings, there are many challenges in the clinical translation of even simple tasks and devices. Foremost among these chal-lenges is the development of biocompatible electrodes capable of long-term, stable recording of brain activity and implantable amplifiers and signal processors that are sufficiently resistant to noise and artifact to faithfully transmit recorded signals to the external environment. Whether there is a suitable market for such new technology depends on its efficacy in restoring and enhancing neural function, its risks of implantation, and its long-term efficacy and usefulness. Now is a critical time in brain-machine interface development because most ongoing studies are science-based and noncommercial, allowing new approaches to be included in commercial schemes under de-velopment. Key Words: Brain-machine interface, brain-com-puter interface, prosthesis, electrode, EEG