Brain-Computer Interface Studies

The Johns Hopkins Department of Neurology is recruiting participants for a clinical trial investigating an implantable brain-computed interface (BCI) to help improve communication for patients with muscular weakness from ALS, brainstem stroke and other causes.

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Investigation on the Cortical Communication (CortiCom) System

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the safety and preliminary effectiveness of the CortiCom system, a BCI consisting of thin sheets of up to 128 electrodes surgically implanted on the surface of the brain. The CortiCom device records and carries brain signals to be processed into computer commands, text or speech. To learn more about the CortiCom Study, email [email protected] or call 410-955-6772.

Details

The CortiCom Study will involve:

  • Surgery to implant the CortiCom investigational device
  • Training to operate the BCI up to 4 hours a day, three days a week at The Johns Hopkins Hospital

The study will initially last six months, but may be extended up to four years based on progress.

 
The CortiCom System's electrodes connect to the rest of the system and its software through a connector on the scalp. 
Illustration of the corticom BCI system

Eligibility

  • 22 to 70 years of age
  • Normal cognition
  • Communication impairments due to muscle weakness resulting from ALS, brainstem stroke, or other neurological causes, including Locked-In Syndrome (inability to move or speak due to paralysis)
  • No contraindications for surgical implantation of the study device

About Our First Study Participant

This WJZ segment includes footage of our first study participant, who has significant speech difficulties due to ALS. Hear from our research team and see the progress our participant was able to make after the implantation of the BCI device.