Thu Sep 19 06:07:00 UTC 2024: ## AI Restores Speech for ALS Patients in Breakthrough Trial

**BOSTON, MA** – In a groundbreaking development, researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have successfully used artificial intelligence to restore the ability to speak in individuals with ALS who have lost their voice. This innovative technology, dubbed “BrainGate 2,” translates brain activity directly into speech.

The trial participant, Casey Harrell, shared his experience of the debilitating effects of ALS, stating, “Not being able to communicate is so frustrating and demoralizing. It’s like you are trapped.” The BrainGate 2 trial aims to break through this communication barrier.

The research team, led by Dr. Leigh Hochberg, implanted a minuscule device, smaller than an M&M, onto Casey’s brain. This device, placed in areas responsible for speech control, captures brain signals as the patient attempts to speak. This information is then decoded by a computer, turning thoughts into words, sentences, and meaningful phrases.

The most remarkable element of this technology is its ability to recreate a patient’s pre-ALS voice using AI, allowing them to communicate in their own voice. Dr. Hochberg described witnessing Casey’s emotional reaction to this achievement as a powerful moment for everyone involved.

The implications of this breakthrough extend beyond restoring speech. Dr. Hochberg believes the technology could potentially be used to restore mobility in ALS patients as well.

“I meet people who yesterday were able to walk and speak without any difficulty and suddenly have lost the ability to move or have lost the ability to speak,” said Dr. Hochberg. “And as a physician, I want nothing more than to be able to say to that person, ‘I’m sorry that this happened, but we have a technology. And tomorrow, you’re going to be able to move again, you’re going to be able to speak again.'”

For Casey, this technology signifies renewed hope after the devastating diagnosis of ALS. “I hope that we are at a time when everyone who is like me, have the same opportunity as I do, to have a device like this that will help them communicate,” he said.

The BrainGate 2 clinical trial is currently recruiting new participants. The team hopes to expand the reach of this life-changing technology to more individuals affected by ALS.

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