University of Rochester neuroscientists were able to implant information into monkeys' brains, research that could lead to brain repairs for stroke victims, according to a study published in the journal Neuron.
The researchers sent "information directly into the premotor cortex" of two monkeys, bypassing sensory regions of the brain via electrodes.
"You could potentially bypass the damaged areas and deliver stimulation to the premotor cortex," study co-author Kevin A. Mazurek told The New York Times. . "That could be a way to bridge parts of the brain that can no longer communicate."
Dr. Mazurek and Dr. Marc Schieber's study focused on simple implants, but they are working on more complex ones, research which might help those who have suffered brain damage.
"When the computer says, 'You're seeing the red light,' you could say, 'Oh, I know what that means — I'm supposed to put my foot on the brake,'" Dr. Schieber explained to the Times. "You take information from one good part of the brain and inject it into a downstream area that tells you what to do."