Scientias · Science

New Neuroprosthesis Enables Communication with Speech and Gestures for Paralysed Individuals

Researchers have developed a new neuroprosthesis that enables people with paralysis to communicate again with both speech and gestures. This is a significant step forward, as previous technologies often focused on one form of communication at a time.

Communication is more than just talking; gestures add context. Conditions such as MS, ALS, strokes, or severe paralysis can make both speaking and arm movements difficult.

Earlier research focused on speech or gestures separately, which caused difficulties for computer systems in processing simultaneous actions.

In a recent study with three patients with body and speech paralysis, brain signals were converted via a brain-computer interface (BCI) into a digital body. This showed that speech and gestures together produce a different brain signal than when performed separately.

Computer models were better able to decipher these combined expressions after training, confirming the hypothesis that the brain signals for combined speech and body language do not form a single entity.

This breakthrough offers hope for patients with severe paralysis to fully participate in human communication again, according to Debara Tucci of an American institute for communication disorders.

Existing BCI devices for paralysed individuals are often slow and limited. The new technique could lead to lifelike, versatile expressions.

Researchers plan a test with a wireless implant on a larger group and with more variation in words and gestures before the technology is practically applicable.

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