07/10/26

China’s booming biotech, from a brain implant to drug discovery

Human Brain Circuitry A Visual Representation of Neural Networks and Cognitive Processes
Credit: Shutterstock

In March, China became the first country to approve an invasive brain-computer interface beyond clinical trials. The implant, called NEO, is now available to some patients with limb paralysis due to a spinal cord injury. Ira talks with Wired staff writer Emily Mullin about the significance of this milestone.

Plus, brain implants aren’t the only development: China’s entire biotech industry has skyrocketed in recent years. A decade ago, about 8% of new drug molecules were discovered in China. Now it’s over 40%. And more clinical trials are now being conducted there than in the U.S. or Europe. Ira talks with health policy researcher So-Yeon Kang, who’s been following the Chinese pharma industry’s meteoric rise.


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Segment Guests

Emily Mullin

Emily Mullin is a staff writer at Wired.

So-Yeon Kang

Dr. So-Yeon Kang is an Assistant Professor of Health Management and Policy at Georgetown University. 

Segment Transcript

The transcript is being processed. It will be available 2-3 days after this story’s publication date.

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