Body
Using multi-electrode array technology and the basic principles we and other labs have discerned through basic research, we are working to develop neural interfaces that allow us to read out detailed information about arm movements from the motor cortex. These so called, "brain machine interfaces" provide a remarkable new tool for studying the brain, and are even capable of restoring movement to paralyzed individuals. We have developed a unique BMI that uses "functional electrical stimulation" to cause paralyzed muscles to contract. With this BMI we have restored voluntary grasp to monkeys during transient paralysis of the hand. We are developing a similar system to restore locomotion to rats with spinal cord injury. For more information click here: http://labs.feinberg.northwestern.edu/lee-miller/research/projects/motor_control/