Science Corporation, founded by former Neuralink president Max Hodak, is preparing to begin its first human trials in the United States for a biohybrid brain computer interface.
Neurosurgery Expert Joins Project
Dr. Murat Günel, chair of neurosurgery at Yale School of Medicine, has joined the company as a scientific adviser after two years of discussions. He will lead efforts to implant the company’s first sensor into a human brain.
The long-term goal is to develop an interface that combines lab-grown neurons with electronic components to create a direct communication link between the brain and computers.
Company Background
Science Corporation was founded in 2021 and recently raised $230 million in a Series C funding round, giving it a valuation of $1.5 billion.
Its most advanced product is PRIMA, a vision restoration device for people with macular degeneration and related conditions. The company acquired this technology in 2024 and has advanced it through clinical trials, with plans to expand availability in Europe after regulatory approval.
Moving Beyond Traditional Brain Implants
Brain-computer interface systems developed by companies such as Neuralink rely on electronic sensors implanted directly into brain tissue. These devices have enabled patients with conditions such as ALS and spinal injuries to control computers using thought.
However, Hodak and his team believe that traditional metal probes may cause long-term damage to brain tissue. This concern has led them to pursue a biological approach.
The proposed system uses lab-grown neurons integrated with electronics. These neurons can be stimulated with light and are designed to connect naturally with the brain, forming a bridge between biological and electronic systems.
Development and Early Testing
The biohybrid sensor is being developed under the direction of chief science officer Alan Mardinly, with a team of around 30 researchers.
A working paper released in 2024 showed that the device could be safely implanted in mice and used to stimulate brain activity.
The company is now focusing on refining prototypes and developing methods to grow neuron cells suitable for medical use.
Approach to Human Trials
The first human trials will involve testing an advanced version of the sensor without embedded neurons. The device contains 520 recording electrodes in an area roughly the size of a pea.
Unlike Neuralink’s implants, the sensor will not be inserted into brain tissue. Instead, it will be placed on top of the brain, beneath the skull. The company believes this design reduces risk and has indicated it does not plan to seek FDA approval for these early trials.
The trials are expected to involve patients already undergoing major brain surgery, such as stroke patients who require part of the skull to be removed. In such cases, the sensor can be placed on the cortex to evaluate its safety and performance.
Potential Medical Applications
If successful, the technology could support several neurological treatments. One early use could involve delivering gentle electrical stimulation to damaged brain or spinal cord cells to promote recovery.
More advanced applications may include monitoring brain activity in patients with tumors and providing early warnings of seizures. The system could also offer new approaches to conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, where current treatments focus on managing symptoms rather than stopping disease progression.
Timeline
Günel said it would be optimistic to expect human trials to begin in 2027, indicating that further development and regulatory discussions are still ongoing.
