Barcelona-based startup Inbrain Neuroelectronics has developed a groundbreaking brain implant made of graphene and is gearing up for its first human trials this summer. The implant functions as a “brain-computer” interface (BCI), capturing brain signals and transmitting them to a computer for analysis. BCIs are currently used for medical diagnostics, communication devices for those unable to speak, and controlling external equipment like robotic limbs. However, Inbrain aims to utilize its technology to treat neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s disease.
The Inbrain implant boasts several unique features due to its utilization of graphene, including the capability to record brain signals and stimulate them. This is achieved by replacing traditional metal chips with graphene. Metal chips are prone to oxidative reactions over time, reducing their effectiveness. Graphene, being carbon-based and not metal, can transmit charges without such reactions, making it stable for millions of stimulation pulses necessary for therapeutic use.
The first human trial of the graphene implant will take place at the University of Manchester and will serve as an interface during brain tumor resection surgeries. During the procedure, the implant will read signals at a high resolution, assisting surgeons in accurately identifying tumor boundaries and preserving essential brain functions like speech centers.
Biocompatibility testing of the graphene implant has been conducted on large animals over the past three years, paving the way for human trials. While the initial focus is on aiding brain surgeries, the same technology holds promise for Parkinson’s disease treatment. Inbrain’s system has received “Breakthrough Device” designation from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its potential as an adjunct therapy for Parkinson’s treatment.
The Inbrain implant targets the nigrostriatal pathway in the brain responsible for movement in Parkinson’s disease treatment. The chip decodes brain signals related to movement initiation and accurately identifies biomarkers associated with Parkinson’s symptoms like tremors, rigidity, and difficulty in movement.