The Implementation, Clinical Progress and Technical Challenges of Implantable Brain-Computer Interface Systems
10.16476/j.pibb.2024.0276
- VernacularTitle:植入式脑机接口系统实现、临床进展与技术挑战
- Author:
Wen-Can QIU
1
;
Liang MA
2
;
Hao-Yue GUO
1
;
Jun-Jie YANG
1
;
Xiao-Jian LI
1
Author Information
1. Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
2. Shenzhen We-Linking Medical Technology Co., Ltd., Shenzhen 518055, China
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
implantable brain-computer interfaces;
experimental paradigms;
decoder;
effectors;
clinical progress;
technical challenges
- From:
Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics
2024;51(10):2478-2497
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
The breakthrough progress of implantable brain-computer interfaces (iBCIs) technology in the field of clinical trials has attracted widespread attention from both academia and industry. The development and advancement of this technology have provided new solutions for the rehabilitation of patients with movement disorders. However, challenges from many aspects make it difficult for iBCIs to further implement and transform technologies. This paper illustrates the key challenges restricting the large-scale development of iBCIs from the perspective of system implementation, then discusses the latest clinical application progress in depth, aiming to provide new ideas for researchers. For the system implementation part, we have elaborated the front-end signal collector, signal processing and decoder, then the effector. The most important part of the front-end module is the neural electrode, which can be divided into two types: piercing and attached. These two types of electrodes are newly classified and described. In the signal processing and decoder section, we have discussed the experimental paradigm together with signal processing and decoder for the first time and believed that the experimental paradigm acts as a learning benchmark for decoders that play a pivotal role in iBCIs systems. In addition, the characteristics and roles of the effectors commonly used in iBCIs systems, including cursors and robotic arms, are analyzed in detail. In the clinical progress section, we have divided the latest clinical progress into two categories: functional rehabilitation and functional replacement from the perspective of the application scenarios of iBCIs. Functional rehabilitation and functional replacement are two different types of application, though the boundary between the two is not absolute. To this end, we have first introduced the corresponding clinical trial progress from the three levels: application field, research team, and clinical timeline, and then conducted an in-depth discussion and analysis of their functional boundaries, in order to provide guidance for future research. Finally, this paper mentions that the key technical challenges in the development of iBCIs technology come from multiple aspects. First of all, from the signal acquisition level, high-throughput and highly bio-compatible neural interface designing is essential to ensure long-term stable signal acquisition. The electrode surface modification method and electrode packaging were discussed. Secondly, in terms of decoding performance, real-time, accurate, and robust algorithms have a decisive impact on improving the reliability of iBCIs systems. The third key technology is from the perspective of practicality, we believe that the signal transmission mode of wireless communication is the trend of the future, but it still needs to overcome challenges such as data transmission rate and battery life. Finally, we believe that issues such as ethics, privacy, and security need to be addressed through legal, policy, and technological innovation. In summary, the development of iBCIs technology requires not only the unremitting efforts of scientific researchers, but also the participation and support of policymakers, medical professionals, technology developers, and all sectors of society. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, iBCIs technology will achieve wider clinical applications in the future and make important contributions to improving the quality of life of patients.
