Monkey's Thoughts Move Robot Arm (broadcast Friday, May 30th, 2008)

Monkeys can operate a prosthetic arm just by thinking, a new study shows. (Credits: Andrew Schwartz et al.) See More Videos

Researchers have developed a neural interface for a prosthetic robotic arm that works in real-world situations, scientists report this week in the journal Nature. To use the technique, thin, hairlike electrodes are inserted into neuronal pathways in the motor cortex to pick up brain signals. Software in the interface was able to decode the motor signals in the brains of two monkeys, and use those signals to direct the movement of a human-like robotic arm.

The monkeys were able to use the arm to perform tasks such as feeding themselves -- and, the researchers say, the monkeys appear to regard the robotic device as part of their own bodies. We'll talk about the research, and what it might mean for people. Teachers, find more information about using Science Friday as a classroom resource in the Kids' Connection.