Brain Computer Interface Frontier: Movement, Coma, Depression, AI Merge
Timestamps are as accurate as they can be but may be slightly off. We encourage you to listen to the full context.
Podcast Summary
In this fascinating exploration of brain-computer interfaces, neurosurgeon Ben Rapaport and CEO Michael Major from Precision Neuroscience reveal how their ultra-thin electrode arrays are revolutionizing neural technology by reading brain signals without penetrating brain tissue. Their system captures (10:07) electrical activity from the brain's surface with remarkable precision, using arrays containing up to 4,096 electrodes that enable paralyzed patients to control computers and robotic arms with their thoughts. The conversation takes a compelling turn as they discuss future applications—from detecting depression biomarkers (31:21) to potentially communicating with patients in minimally conscious states (56:40), while exploring the profound implications of merging human consciousness with artificial intelligence systems.
Speakers
Michael Major
CEO and Co-founder of Precision Neuroscience, bringing investment and business-building expertise to translate cutting-edge brain-computer interface technology into clinical reality. Previously worked alongside leading neurosurgeons to help build the company from founding to a $155M Series C and 40+ patient implants—more than the rest of the industry combined.
Dr. Ben Rapaport
Co-founder of Precision Neuroscience and practicing neurosurgeon at Mount Sinai with a PhD in electrical engineering. Former co-founder of Neuralink, he combines deep understanding of the brain as an electrical system with cutting-edge electronics design to develop safer, high-resolution brain-computer interfaces that sit on the brain's surface without damaging neural tissue.
Alex Kantrowitz (Host)
Host of Big Technology Podcast, providing nuanced conversations on the tech world and beyond. Known for bringing industry leaders together to explore emerging technologies and their implications for society.
Key Takeaways
Master Direct Neural Communication
Build ultra-high bandwidth brain interfaces using microscale electrodes (50 microns = neuron-size) deployed across multiple cortical regions simultaneously. Signal quality matters more than depth—conscious experience happens at the surface, not in "deep brain" penetration. (29:00)
Scale Through Structural Consistency
Design electrode arrays with regular lattice patterns that preserve spatial relationships across patients. This enables machine learning algorithms to compress data and transfer learnings between subjects—impossible with random needle placements that vary patient-to-patient. (35:05)
Prioritize Safety as Performance Multiplier
View safety and performance as self-reinforcing, not opposing forces. Precision completed 40 implants (more than rest of industry combined) by designing non-damaging surface arrays. This reversible approach accelerated FDA clearance and clinical adoption timelines. (05:57)
Build for Bandwidth, Not Basic Function
Target fiber-optic-level neural bandwidth rather than dial-up equivalents. Single-digit millisecond latency beats biological hand-to-brain delays (25ms), enabling superhuman-speed digital interaction. Users describe the system as "predicting thoughts" due to sub-biological response times. (67:01)
Map the Consciousness Spectrum
Develop diagnostic tools for intermediate consciousness states between coma and wakefulness. 15% of seemingly unresponsive patients retain cognitive function—brain interfaces can distinguish "cognitive motor dissociation" from true coma, enabling communication and recovery prediction. (56:41)
Statistics & Facts
- Precision Neuroscience has conducted 40 implants, which is more than the rest of the brain computer interface industry combined in the past two years. (07:07)
- The company raised $155 million and closed their Series C in December 2024, employing 85 people. (01:05)
- About one-third of stroke patients (several hundred thousand people annually in the US) recover with persistent deficits affecting speech, hand use, or walking ability. (22:23)
- 15% or more of patients who appear to be in coma-like states may actually have the ability to think and modulate their neural activity, but cannot communicate through normal speech or movement. (55:21)
- Their brain computer interface system operates with single-digit millisecond latency, compared to the biological 25-millisecond limit between brain and hand movement. (66:03)
