Science Corporation, founded by Max Hodak, is preparing to launch its first human trials in the United States for a next-generation biohybrid brain-computer interface (BCI).

The project aims to create a direct communication link between the human brain and computers using a combination of biology and electronics.

Leading Neurosurgeon Joins the Initiative

Renowned neurosurgeon Murat Günel, chair at the Yale School of Medicine, has joined the company as a scientific adviser after two years of collaboration.

He will lead efforts to implant the company’s first sensor into a human brain, marking a significant milestone in the project’s development.

What Makes This Technology Different?

Unlike traditional brain implants developed by companies like Neuralink, which use metal electrodes inserted into brain tissue, Science Corporation is exploring a biohybrid approach.

Their system:

  • Combines lab-grown neurons with electronic components
  • Uses light stimulation to activate neurons
  • Encourages natural integration with brain tissue

This approach aims to reduce long-term damage and improve compatibility with the human brain.

Company Background and Existing Innovations

Founded in 2021, Science Corporation recently raised $230 million in Series C funding, reaching a valuation of $1.5 billion.

Its most advanced product, PRIMA, is a vision restoration device designed for patients with macular degeneration. The technology was acquired in 2024 and is currently progressing through clinical trials, with plans to expand into Europe after regulatory approval.

Development and Early Testing

The biohybrid sensor is being developed under the leadership of Alan Mardinly, the company’s chief science officer, along with a team of around 30 researchers.
Key progress so far includes:

  • Successful implantation and testing in mice (2024 study)
  • Ability to stimulate brain activity safely
  • Ongoing refinement of neuron growth techniques for medical use

How the First Human Trials Will Work

The initial human trials will focus on a simplified version of the device:

  • The sensor contains 520 recording electrodes
  • It is about the size of a pea
  • It will be placed on top of the brain (beneath the skull) rather than inserted into brain tissue

This design is intended to reduce surgical risks compared to traditional implants.
The trials are expected to involve patients already undergoing major brain surgeries, such as stroke-related procedures, where part of the skull is temporarily removed. This allows safe placement of the device on the brain’s surface.

Notably, the company has indicated it may not seek FDA approval for these early-stage trials.

Potential Medical Applications

If successful, the technology could unlock several important medical uses:

  • Stimulating damaged brain or spinal cord cells to aid recovery
  • Monitoring brain activity in tumor patients
  • Detecting and predicting seizures
  • Supporting treatment approaches for conditions like Parkinson’s disease

This could mark a shift from symptom management to more direct neurological intervention.

Timeline and Expectations

According to Murat Günel, beginning human trials by 2027 would be an optimistic target, as further development and regulatory considerations are still ongoing.

FAQs

1. What is a biohybrid brain-computer interface?
It is a system that combines biological neurons with electronic components to enable direct communication between the brain and external devices.

2. How is this different from Neuralink’s technology?
Unlike Neuralink, which uses implanted metal electrodes, this approach uses lab-grown neurons to create a more natural connection with the brain.

3. Is the device implanted inside the brain?
No, the initial version will be placed on the surface of the brain, reducing potential risks.

4. Who will participate in the first trials?
Patients already undergoing major brain surgeries, such as stroke-related procedures, are expected to be part of the early trials.

5. What conditions could this technology help treat?
It may help with spinal injuries, seizures, tumors, and neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease.

Conclusion

Science Corporation is taking a bold step toward redefining brain-computer interfaces by merging biology with technology. By focusing on safer, more natural integration with the human brain, the company aims to overcome the limitations of traditional implants. While human trials are still a few years away, this innovation has the potential to transform how neurological conditions are treated in the future.