Is Neuralink Ready For the Future?
Introduction
‘Imagine if Stephen Hawking could communicate faster than a speed typist or auctioneer. That is the goal’ - Elon Musk.
Neuralink, a startup founded by Musk, is a neurotechnology company that aims to incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the human brain. The company plans to do so via brain-machine interface (BMI) technology.
Neural implants have the potential to change the world of healthcare. Conditions that were previously deemed ‘untreatable’, such as Parkinson’s and epilepsy, may now be combatted through neurotechnology.
Additionally, Neuralink promotes this technology’s ability to facilitate computer commands directly from the brain.
As Neuralink seeks to push the boundaries of technology, this breakthrough inevitably poses legal and regulatory challenges. This article examines the challenges Neuralink would encounter upon the company’s expansion into the UK market.
Intellectual property challenges
The integration of neural implants and technology raises issues with existing regulations of Intellectual Property (IP). Generally, regulations exist to govern human creations rather than content produced by AI.
Neuralink has already secured several patents; a crucial step for the company to ensure that their technology is not infringed by other businesses and institutions who may also enter this field. The patents include ‘Neural Interface Technology’ which protects the design and functions of the BMI, alongside the device used to implant the technology into the brain.
Alan Marco has recognised that technology companies often incorporate a mix of wide and narrow patents to ensure a balanced portfolio. By virtue of this approach, barriers are established to restrict competitors without inhibiting essential innovation.
There has been demand for regulators and international leaders to balance Neuralink’s quest for innovation with the health and rights of the company’s clients.
Compliance
Compliance with regulatory standards is necessary for Neuralink to enter into the UK market. Additionally, they must seek approval from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Furthermore, rigorous testing on humans is imperative.
In America, the FDA has already granted approval for Neuralink to recruit humans for clinical trials that are set to take place in September 2024. Neuralink’s website is currently inviting people with quadriplegia to participate in this clinical trial.
However, there are ethical concerns as to whether individuals are fully notified of the associated risks and long-term implications of such invasive medical trials. For example, financially vulnerable people may subject themselves to clinical trials in return for monetary payment.
Such ethical issues regarding informed consent are vital for Neuralink to overcome. Further, operational transparency is needed to ensure its reliability. This includes its openness in research and development, in addition to its clinical trial methods and the results thereof.
Conclusion
Specific regulations must be developed further to accommodate the rapid innovations made within this field. In particular, attention must be drawn to BMI technology. Neuralink is at the front lines of legal and ethical challenges. These controversies must be addressed, such that Neuralink and its peers can ethically grow and expand moving forward.
By Bernice Tan