Precision Neuroscience Partners with SCI Ventures to Advance Brain-Computer Interface Technology

Precision Neuroscience, a leading developer of brain-computer interface (BCI) technology, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with SCI Ventures, a venture fund backed by major spinal cord injury organizations. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the development of innovative solutions for individuals with paralysis and neurological conditions.

Revolutionary Layer 7 Cortical Interface

At the heart of this partnership is Precision Neuroscience's Layer 7 cortical interface, a cutting-edge BCI device designed to restore function to people with paralysis. The Layer 7 system is a marvel of miniaturization, consisting of a flexible film strip merely one-fifth the thickness of a human hair. Despite its diminutive size, the device packs an impressive 1,024 electrodes into an area comparable to a postage stamp.

The Layer 7 interface is designed to sit on the surface of the brain, where it records high-resolution brain signals and converts them into digital commands. This allows patients to operate computers, communicate with loved ones, and potentially control external devices using only their thoughts. What sets the Layer 7 apart from other BCI systems is its minimally invasive nature; it can be inserted and removed through a submillimeter incision in the skull without causing damage to healthy tissue.

Strategic Partnership and Investment

The partnership between Precision Neuroscience and SCI Ventures brings together technological innovation and a vast network of resources in the spinal cord injury community. SCI Ventures, backed by organizations such as the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, Wings for Life, Spinal Research, Promobilia, and the Shepherd Center, has made a seven-figure investment in Precision Neuroscience.

This collaboration provides Precision Neuroscience with access to SCI's extensive network of patients, doctors, and regulatory experts. According to both parties, this will significantly accelerate Precision's efforts to bring their device to patients with spinal cord injuries and neurological diseases such as ALS and stroke.

Adrien Cohen, founding Managing Director of SCI Ventures, emphasized the fund's interest in BCI technology due to its potential to restore "functional recovery" to individuals with spinal cord injuries. Cohen, whose brother was paralyzed in an accident, noted that Precision's BCI stood out for its balance between invasiveness and functionality.

Clinical Progress and Future Outlook

Precision Neuroscience has made significant strides in bringing its technology to market. In April, the company received FDA clearance for the Layer 7 device, allowing for temporary use for up to 30 days. To date, the company has tested its device in 58 patients, primarily in surgical settings, as it works to gather data to support FDA approval for a long-term BCI system.

John Woock, Ph.D., Chief Business Officer at Precision, highlighted the importance of user feedback in developing a technology that can be integrated into patients' daily lives. The partnership with SCI Ventures is expected to play a crucial role in incorporating patient perspectives into clinical studies and the final product design.

As Precision Neuroscience continues its journey towards commercialization, the support from SCI Ventures provides additional momentum at what CEO Michael Mager describes as "a pivotal time for brain-computer interfaces." With this collaboration, Precision Neuroscience moves closer to its goal of delivering safe, effective, and scalable solutions to those living with paralysis.