WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, Precision Neuroscience expand partnership on next generation brain-computer interface technology

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – The WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI), in partnership with Precision Neuroscience Corporation (Precision), has advanced its pioneering work in brain-computer interface (BCI) technology with the RNI’s first successful extended in-human clinical study using the Layer 7 Cortical Interface.  

The extended study builds on short-term interoperative procedures previously conducted at RNI, which the Institute was the first in the United States to perform. New studies allow RNI researchers to use the Layer 7 to safely monitor brain activity for up to 30 days — an important step toward longer-term, fully implantable systems.

Precision’s Layer 7 cortical interface is a revolutionary implant that features 1,024 electrodes distributed across an ultra-thin, flexible film. Designed to conform seamlessly to the brain’s surface without causing damage to healthy tissue, the device captures neural activity with an unprecedented level of detail.  

Earlier this year, the Layer 7 cortical interface received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, authorizing the device for commercial use with implantation durations of up to 30 days. The clearance allows researchers to gather continuous neural data from patients while they recover from their procedures. Patients enrolled in these clinical studies are undergoing planned craniotomy procedures for unrelated purposes, such as having a tumor or blood clot removed. 

“Our work with Precision Neuroscience bridges the gap from concept to clinical testing and has advanced the development of next generation human studies,” Peter Konrad, M.D., Ph.D., chair of the RNI Department of Neurosurgery, said. “Together, we’re generating new insights into brain function that could transform how we understand and treat neurological injury.”  

These new studies lay the groundwork for breakthroughs that can lead to fully implantable brain-computer interface (BCI) devices, restoring independence for people with neurological conditions. 

“Our partnership with the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute is critical to advancing the science behind next-generation BCI technology,” Benjamin Rapoport, M.D., Ph.D., co-founder and CSO of Precision Neuroscience, said. “Working closely with their esteemed research teams, we’re pioneering a brighter future for people living with neurological conditions and ensuring exceptional clinical care.” 

The collaboration aligns under a unique National Science Foundation (NSF) funded study grant (NSF IUCRC BRAIN - #2310939) that supports novel brain technologies with industry partners. 

About the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute 

The WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI) is a comprehensive multidisciplinary patient care, education, and research institute providing neurological and mental healthcare for 300,000 patients annually. The 300 physicians and scientists of the RNI improve lives by pioneering advances in neuroscience, brain health, and therapeutics. The RNI team uses the latest technologies with academic, government, and industry partners to make tangible progress to combat public health challenges ranging from addiction to Alzheimer’s disease. For more information, visit WVUMedicine.org/RNI.   

About Precision 

Precision Neuroscience is working to provide breakthrough treatments for the millions of people worldwide suffering from neurological illnesses. The company is building the only brain–computer interface designed to be minimally invasive, safely removable, and capable of processing large amounts of data. To learn more about how Precision is connecting human intelligence and artificial intelligence, visit www.precisionneuro.io.