Today, Axoft revealed it has obtained the green light to initiate a pioneering human trial to test its innovative soft materials designed for brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). Hailing from Cambridge, Massachusetts, Axoft specializes in crafting soft substances that emulate the mechanical traits of brain tissue, enhancing the stability of the integration between tissue and electronic devices for implantable BCIs (iBCIs). The BCI field continues to be a vibrant sector, with forecasts from analysts indicating a potential market surge to $400 billion in the coming years. Axoft has independently secured $18 million in funding to advance its material that is currently awaiting patent approval.
The company’s trial will assess its technology at The Panama Clinic, earmarked for commencement in early 2025. This initiative represents the inaugural human application of such bio-inspired material. With the initial patient scheduled for early February, the study at The Panama Clinic will encompass up to five individuals undergoing standard brain resection procedures. Participants will remain conscious during the evaluation of Axoft’s iBCI, facilitating the decoding of voluntary brain signals.
Insights into Axoft’s Technology
Axoft has devised its innovations to facilitate a high-resolution neural interface through minimally invasive surgical processes. The technology boasts remarkable biocompatibility and softness, aimed at mitigating scar tissue formation and reducing implant migration within the brain over the years. The material offers durable signal stability as well, successfully tracing the electrical activity of individual neurons over a 12-month span in animal experiments. Furthermore, Axoft highlights the material’s high sensor density, optimizing the data exchange between the brain and electronic systems.
“We are driven by a mission to address unmet medical requirements via iBCIs. By enhancing the safety and efficiency of iBCIs, while ensuring they are approachable and not overcomplex, we anticipate creating a scalable solution to aid millions of individuals affected by chronic neurological conditions, including those leading to paralysis and emerging neuropsychiatric indications,” expressed Dr. Paul Le Floch, co-founder and CEO of Axoft. “Current iBCIs face challenges maintaining a stable and detailed interface with soft biological tissues long-term, primarily due to their rigidity and limited compatibility. Our brain-mimicking polymer materials facilitate a seamless and stable integration with deep brain tissues.
“This preliminary study aims to produce initial safety information and prove Axoft’s iBCI capability in deciphering neural signals from humans while minimizing brain disruption and aligning with existing surgical procedures.”