In a remarkable breakthrough, a paralysed man has regained the ability to walk through the innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI) that translates his brain signals into commands for his legs and feet.
Gert-Jan Oskam, a 40-year-old Dutch man who had been paralysed from the waist down for 12 years following a cycling accident, had almost given up hope of ever walking again. However, he discovered a groundbreaking clinical trial conducted by Swiss researchers at Lausanne University.
The trial involved the implantation of two electronic devices onto Oskam's brain and spine, which wirelessly communicate with each other and a computer program. This program decodes his intentions to move his lower limbs, enabling him to stand up, walk with the support of a walker, and even climb stairs—simply by thinking about it.
Oskam expressed his joy, saying, "It has been a long journey, but now I can stand up and have a beer with my friend. It's a pleasure that many people don't realize."
The findings of this groundbreaking achievement were published in the journal Nature, with researchers highlighting that this is the first instance of a paralysed individual being able to walk solely by their thoughts, without any external stimulation or assistance.
The potential impact of this technology is significant, as it holds promise for millions of people worldwide who have spinal cord injuries and are unable to move their lower body.
Professor Jocelyne Bloch, the neurosurgeon who performed the surgery on Oskam, emphasized that the goal is not just a scientific trial but also to provide greater access to individuals with spinal cord injuries who have been told they would never regain movement.
While acknowledging the experimental stage of the system, Bloch stressed the need for further improvements and testing before the technology can be widely accessible.
Harvey Sihota, CEO of UK charity Spinal Research, commended the development as "very encouraging" and highlighted its potential to restore function and independence to the spinal cord injury community.
While there is still progress to be made in refining these technologies, this groundbreaking achievement marks an exciting advancement in neurotechnology and raises hope for individuals living with spinal cord injuries.
