Nature Podcast

Brain-reading implants turn thoughts into speech

Aug 23, 2023

Brain-computer interfaces are transforming communication for those with paralysis, with improved devices converting brain activity into speech. The podcast also covers research on marathon running, bird coloration, and the impact of heat on tropical forests. It discusses the need to protect tropical forests and mitigate climate change, as well as Russia's challenges in lunar exploration.

29:28

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Quick takeaways

Brain-computer interfaces show promise in restoring communication for individuals with severe paralysis.

Genetic analysis reveals surprising insights into the appearance and ancestry of the ancient individual known as the Iceman.

Deep dives

Brain-Computer Interfaces for Communication

Researchers have developed brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) that allow people who have lost the ability to speak to communicate in a faster and more accurate way than previous methods. By detecting and deciphering brain activity, BCIs can translate the activity into text or movement. In a recent study, participants with neurological conditions such as ALS or brainstem stroke were able to control vocal tract movements through a BCI, enabling them to communicate their thoughts and intentions. While the technology is still being refined and has some error rates, BCIs have the potential to transform the lives of individuals who have lost their ability to communicate.

Introduction

2min

Developing a Brain-Computer Interface for Speech

10min

The Transformative Impact of Brain-Reading Implants

9min

Protecting Tropical Forests and Reevaluating the Iceman

5min

Russia's Failed Attempt to Land a Craft on the Moon

4min

In this episode:

00:47 The brain-computer interfaces that help restore communication

People with certain neurological conditions can lose the ability to speak as a result of facial paralysis. This week, two teams demonstrate the potential of devices called brain-computer interfaces to help people in these situations communicate. These interfaces work by identifying the brain activity associated with the intent to say words, and converting this activity into speech-related outputs, such as text or audio. Both devices show marked improvements compared with previous interfaces, and show that the technology could represent a way to help restore communication to people with severe paralysis.

Research article: Metzger et al.

Research article: Willett et al.

News and Views: Brain implants that enable speech pass performance milestones

11:46 Research Highlights

How wind-tunnel experiments could help athletes run the fastest marathon ever, and an analysis that could help explain why birds are the colours they are.

Research Highlight: Physicists find a way to set a new marathon record

Research Highlight: Which birds are drab and which dazzle? Predators have a say

14:06 How much heat can tropical leaves take?

As the climate warms, tropical forests around the world are facing increasing temperatures. But it’s unknown how much the trees can endure before their leaves start to die. A team has combined multiple data sources to try and answer this question, and suggest that a warming of 3.9 °C would lead to many leaves reaching a tipping point at which photosynthesis breaks down. This scenario would likely cause significant damage to these ecosystems’ role in vital carbon storage and as homes to significant biodiversity.

Research article: Doughty et al.