A Neuralink in the Pharmaceutical Field: A Comprehensive Review of Brain–Computer Interface Applications in Drug Development and Neurological Therapy
Abstract
Recent developments in neurotechnology have created new possibilities for advancing biomedical and pharmaceutical research. One of the most promising innovations is the brain–computer interface (BCI), a technology that enables direct communication between the human brain and external computing systems. Neuralink, a neurotechnology company established by Elon Musk, is developing high-bandwidth implantable neural interfaces capable of both recording and stimulating brain activity. These devices use ultra-thin electrode threads implanted into the brain to capture neuronal signals and transmit them wirelessly to computers for analysis. Such technology has significant implications for pharmaceutical science, particularly in areas such as neurological drug discovery, personalized treatment strategies, and real-time therapeutic monitoring. By providing continuous observation of neural responses to medications, Neuralink may accelerate the development of new drugs, enhance clinical trial evaluation, and support precision medicine approaches for neurological conditions including Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, major depressive disorder, and Alzheimer’s disease. This review paper analyzes the technological principles behind Neuralink systems and discusses their potential applications in pharmaceutical research. Additionally, it evaluates the benefits, challenges, ethical considerations, and future research directions associated with integrating brain–computer interface technology into pharmaceutical development.
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