Caltech Team Uses Ultrasound to Read Monkeys' Minds and Control Computer Cursor
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Caltech researchers developed a brain-machine interface using functional ultrasound (fUS) to read brain activity non-invasively and control a computer with minimal delay.
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fUS allows imaging of brain regions by detecting changes in blood flow, providing whole-brain access with better resolution than EEG and no implants required.
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The technology was used to measure planning activity in monkeys' brains, then a decoder translated that into cursor control with high accuracy.
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Unlike other BMIs, the fUS system does not require daily recalibration.
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The researchers plan to further develop fUS for 3D imaging in humans to refine control of devices like prosthetics.