China is racing ahead in the field of brain-computer interface (BCI) technology, marking significant clinical progress backed by state-supported research.
Patient Controls Video Game with Mind
In a groundbreaking medical achievement in June, a Chinese medical team successfully implanted an invasive BCI device in a patient who had lost all four limbs. Remarkably, within just two to three weeks of training, the patient was able to play video games like car racing using only his thoughts. This advancement positions China as the second country globally, following the United States, to bring BCI technology into the clinical trial stage.
The pioneering trial was conducted by the Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, in collaboration with Huashan Hospital affiliated with Fudan University.
The Science Behind the Breakthrough
The BCI system functions by capturing neural signals generated by the patient’s thoughts. These signals are decoded through advanced algorithms and converted into digital commands, creating a direct link between the mind and external devices. The implant, about the size of a coin, is placed in a thinned area of the patient’s skull. Its ultra-flexible neural electrodes, measuring just 5 to 8 millimeters at the tip, are inserted into brain tissue through minimally invasive surgery.
Expanding Clinical Applications
Following this success, China opened its first BCI clinical ward at Beijing Tiantan Hospital, affiliated with Capital Medical University. The ward aims to further BCI research and clinical trials, promoting technological advancements in the field.
“We’re seeing promising results with movement and speech restoration,” said Zhao Jizong, chief of the hospital’s Neurosurgical and Cerebrovascular Neurosurgery Department. “But it’s important to understand these are still research experiments, and full clinical implementation will require further development and time.”
Policy Supporting Innovation
In March, China’s National Healthcare Security Administration released pricing guidelines for neural system care services, recognizing BCIs as an independent category. This move is designed to boost the clinical application of cutting-edge technology to benefit patients in need. The guidelines outline pricing for both invasive and non-invasive BCIs, paving the way for the swift translation of mature BCI technology into clinical use.
These efforts are part of China’s broader initiative to enhance people’s health and well-being by facilitating the application of pioneering technologies. In January, the government released guidelines on elderly care services reforms, supporting the development of technologies like humanoid robots, brain-computer interfaces, and artificial intelligence.
Global Recognition of China’s Progress
“China is growing very quickly,” said Tom Oxley, CEO and founder of U.S.-based BCI company Synchron. “There are several BCI companies emerging, and it looks like the government has a very clear strategic view on this technology. It looks to me that the field of BCI is moving very, very quickly in China.”
