Brain-machine interfaces

Figure 1 – Neural recordings measured at different spatial scales differ in their performance and reliability.

A brain-machine interface (BMI) records neural activity from the brain and processes it to generate a control signal. Neural activity recorded in the motor system, for example, can be used to move a prosthetic device such as a computer interface, wheelchair or a robotic arm. The ideal brain-machine interface should be reliable and support high-performance control. However, neural signals can be measured in many different ways (see Sidebar). Neural signals differ in the performance and reliability (see Figure 1).  Spiking activity can support high-performance control but is difficult to obtain reliably. In contrast, neural activity measured at larger scales (LFP/ECoG) offers less detailed control than spiking, but may be more reliable. We are interested in understanding how to optimize BMI performance and reliability by incorporating neural signals at different spatial scales. We have been comparing the information contained in different neural signals. We have also recently engineered a new device which allows us to record spiking, LFP and ECoG signals at the same time from the same group of neurons.

Another direction in BMI is inspired by the success of Deep-Brain Stimulation. Stimulation-based BMIs process neural activity to control patterned brain stimulation. These systems close-the-loop between stimulation and recording to correct abnormal brain activity patterns. This approach has potential to treat a wide-range of neurological disorders (see Brain Stimulation).

Project Funded By
DARPA Biological Technologies Office
New York University Grand Challenge