‘World’s first’ graphene-based brain chip implanted in a cancer patient

A Spain-based startup has successfully demonstrated the capability of its graphene-based brain-computer interface (BCI) to perform precise tumor surgery.

INBRAIN Neuroelectronics, a company specializing in brain-computer interface therapies, successfully implanted its cortical interface in a human patient.

As per the press statement, this is the “world’s first human procedure of its cortical interface in a patient undergoing brain tumor resection.”

Interestingly, this BCI technology was able to identify the difference between healthy and cancerous brain tissue at a microscopic level. The procedure was conducted at the Salford Royal Hospital in Manchester, UK.

“The world’s first human application of a graphene-based BCI highlights the transformative impact of graphene-based neural technologies in medicine. This clinical milestone opens a new era for BCI technology, paving the way for advancements in both neural decoding and its application as a therapeutic intervention,” said Carolina Aguilar, CEO and Co-Founder of INBRAIN Neuroelectronics.

Graphene-based BCI

The device is based on graphene, a remarkable material with exceptional properties. Graphene-based materials consist of a single layer of carbon atoms.

Graphene is remarkably thin yet incredibly strong. Its unique electrical and mechanical properties blend making it perfect for neural interfaces.

“We are capturing brain activity in areas where traditional metals and materials struggle with signal fidelity. Graphene provides ultra-high density for sensing and stimulating, which is critical to conduct high precision resections while preserving the patient’s functional capacities, such as movement, language or cognition,” said Dr. David Coope, the neurosurgeon who performed the procedure.

Following extensive testing and development, the company announced the initiation of human trials in July 2024. The trial will include 8-10 patients to assess the safety of graphene in direct contact with the human brain.

“The study will also aim to demonstrate graphene’s superiority over other materials in decoding brain functionality in both awake and asleep states,” said Kostas Kostarelos, Co-Founder of INBRAIN Neuroelectronics.

BCI could be used for Parkinson’s treatment

The company has combined graphene, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced semiconductor technology to create a new type of BCI therapy. These therapies are designed to be minimally invasive.

Moreover, the BCI-Tx platform uses graphene to provide high-resolution brain signal recording and “adaptive neuroelectronic therapy.”

This device can also identify specific patterns in brain activity, known as biomarkers, that are associated with various neurological conditions. This information can be used to diagnose and monitor diseases.

As per the press release, the platform can also precisely stimulate specific regions of the brain, including the cortex and subcortical structures, for “neural network rebalancing.”

“INBRAIN is at the forefront of precision neurology, integrating BCI decoding with high-precision neuromodulation to restore function and alleviate symptoms, delivering continuous, personalized treatment to maximize benefits while minimizing side effects,” Aguilar noted.

The company suggests that this brain implant could significantly benefit individuals suffering from Parkinson’s disease. According to INBRAIN, approximately 30% of the global population suffers from neurological disorders.

Several companies, including Elon Musk’s Neuralink, have been actively involved in developing BCI technology.

In recent years, BCIs have enabled breakthroughs in medical diagnostics, communication for those with speech impairments, and even controlling external devices like robotic limbs by recording and interpreting brain signals.