Moonshot project on brain co-processors

Why in News?

Recently, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) launched a moonshot project on brain co-processors.

• Brain Co-processors – These are an emerging neurotechnology designed to enhance or restore the brain’s natural functions.
• They combine neuromorphic hardware and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to interpret and influence brain activity.
• These devices interact directly with neural signals to assist in real-life cognitive and motor functions.
• Objectives of the Moonshot Project - To develop advanced brain co-processors that can decode, process, and re-encode brain signals.
• The project aims to create both:
  • Implantable devices (placed inside the body)
  • Non-invasive devices (external systems)
• Working - The system follows a closed-loop process:
  • Decode brain activity from neural recordings.
  • Process the signals using AI algorithms.
  • Re-encode signals back into the brain through neural stimulation or neurofeedback.

• Stroke Rehabilitation - The technology is aimed at cognitive and motor rehabilitation of stroke survivors.
• It helps restore critical motor functions, such as:
  • Goal-directed reach
  • Grasp movements
  • Smooth and coordinated limb control.
• AI-Powered Closed-Loop Device - The project plans to develop an AI-powered closed-loop brain interface.
• This device will connect with different regions of the brain to restore coordinated movement and neural control.
• Indigenous Technology Development in India - The initiative aims to indigenise key technologies, including
  • Brain implants
  • Neuromorphic hardware
  • AI software stacks
• Designed to function within India’s clinical infrastructure, especially in low-resource healthcare settings.
• Creation of National Brain Data Infrastructure - Development of India-specific neural databases, including:
  • Stereo EEG (sEEG) recordings
  • Electrocorticography (ECoG) data
  • These datasets will support AI training and neurological research.
• Digital Public Goods - The project will create open-source digital resources, such as AI models, Neural datasets and Visualization tools.
• These will be shared as digital public goods to support global neuroscience research.
• Significance - Addresses a major medical challenge—stroke rehabilitation
• Strengthens India’s capacity in brain-computer interface technologies and neuro-AI research.
• Supports the development of affordable medical technologies for large populations.

Reference

The Hindu | Moonshot project on brain co-processors