UC Merced

Neuroprosthetics are devices that are used when there has been an interruption in brain signals that produce and complete a series of intended movements, resulting in various forms of paralysis and physical disabilities. These synaptic connections can be replicated by electric pulses coming from the device. It can also be used on amputees with prosthetic limbs, connecting the piece that is placed on the motor cortex to a computer, which decodes the brain's input and converts the message to the prosthetic limb, thus creating the intended movement. The current main obstacles in optimizing neuroprosthetic abilities include needing better understanding the software of brain function, improving sensory features of neuroprosthetics, privacy and accountability controversy, and safety concerns. Overall, neuroprosthetics have the ability to allow affected individuals to regain their physical independence, and there is an enhanced progress in supporting wider ranges of movements.