Elon Musk and his Neuralink company's attempt to begin testing brain chips in humans has been rejected by the FDA, according to a report by Reuters.

The request was submitted to the agency last year but according to Reuters, the FDA identified several problematic factors with the technology, including the chip's lithium battery and the potential for small wires to move to other areas of the brain.

"Neuralink doesn't appear to have the mindset and experience that's needed to get this to market anytime soon," Kip Ludwig, former program director for neural engineering at the U.S. National Institute of Health.

There was also a concern of whether or not the chip could be removed without inflicting damage to brain tissue.

What Exactly Is Neuralink?

Musk has claimed the technology could be life-changing for people suffering from paralysis, enabling them to communicate and walk, or it could help repair visual impairment in people.

The chip is supposed to process brain signals that are then transmitted to a device. While human trials for Neuralink have not commenced, there have been versions of the tech that reportedly had some success in animals. However, the company faced pushback and a probe from the U.S. Department of Agriculture after animal cruelty concerns were raised.

Last month Neuralink admitted that at least one monkey was euthanized because of a surgical complication.

Share:
More In Business
Study: Over 58% of Hybrid Workers Are 'Coffee Badging'
With more employees being called back to the office, many workers are suddenly protesting by being in the office for as little time as possible. As the term suggests, coffee-badging means coming in for just enough time to have a cup of coffee, show your face, and swipe your badge.
Securitize: Join The Private Credit Boom
Cheddar News' Need2Know is brought to you by Securitize, which helps unlock broader access to alternative investments in private businesses, funds, and other alternative assets. The private credit boom is here and the Hamilton Lane Senior Credit Opportunities Fund has tripled in assets under management in just six months from November 2022 through April this year. Visit Securitize.io to learn more.
Load More