The University of Southampton

Author: Jemma Temple

Uploading… Hope: Neural Implants and Memory restoration

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“Memory is not just the imprint of the past upon us; it is the keeper of what we are, the sum of what we have been.” – Lois Lowry

The purpose of life has been debated for centuries, with many suggesting it lies in making memories- unique experiences that define our identities. But what if those memories fade? For millions of people with Alzheimer’s, memory loss can feel like losing parts of themselves. Inspired by the tissue engineering lecture, I wondered if regenerative technologies could not only restore bodily functions, but also cognitive abilities, such as memory.

Neural implants are showing promise in restoring memories and repairing damaged neural pathways. However, as these technologies advance, they raise significant ethical dilemmas. Could memory restoration extend to memory manipulation? What risks might arise from altering an individual’s memories and, in turn, their identity? This blog will explore the science behind neural implants and the ethical concerns surrounding memory manipulation.

Understanding Neural Implants

Neural implants create a direct link between the brain and external devices, using electrodes implanted in regions like the hippocampus, vital for memory formation and storage [2]. In neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, where neural circuits are damaged [3], these implants stimulate affected areas, enhancing synaptic activity and promoting neural plasticity.

Image source: IEEE Spectrum – ‘How do Neural Implants Work?’ [1]

What intrigues me is how these devices can learn electrical patterns between neurons, potentially restoring lost cognitive functions. Recent advancements like deep brain stimulation (DBS) and multi-input multi-output (MIMO) systems have shown promise in improving memory and slowing cognitive decline in experimental models. The potential of neural implants to repair and enhance memory continues to fuel my interest in this exciting field.

DBS in Action

An inspiring example of DBS in action comes from the case of an 85-year-old woman, shared in a Medical News Today article which you can find here. After Alzheimer’s caused memory loss, she struggled with daily tasks such as preparing meals. However, after two years of DBS treatment, involving electrodes implanted in her brain to stimulate memory-related areas, she regained her independence. The video below offers a personal glimpse into her journey, offering a testament to the potential of neurostimulation therapies in restoring cognitive function.

As promising as neural implants are for memory restoration, they also raise ethical questions about their potential consequences, especially when it comes to manipulating memories and altering one’s identity.

Manipulating Memory and Identity

Whilst researching neural implants, I encountered an article that touched on the uncertainty of MIMO systems in real life. One concern is how we replicate the personalised selectivity of memory – how do we filter out life experiences that aren’t important, and who decides which memories matter? (Full article here) These questions highlight the ethical dilemmas of memory manipulation, especially regarding identity. In Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, characters erase painful memories, but the film illustrates the risks of tampering with memory, which could unintentionally erase essential aspects of who we are. With neural implants, the possibility of altering memories raises significant concerns about the control we have over our identities, especially when we are unsure how technology will make these decisions.

Personally, while the potential to help those with memory loss is immense, I believe we must approach this technology with caution. Memory is too central to our humanity to risk losing its authenticity in the pursuit of progress.

References:

  1. How Do Neural Implants Work? – IEEE Spectrum [Internet]. [cited 2025 Mar 23]. Available from: https://spectrum.ieee.org/what-is-neural-implant-neuromodulation-brain-implants-electroceuticals-neuralink-definition-examples
  2. MIT Technology Review [Internet]. [cited 2025 Mar 26]. A memory prosthesis could restore memory in people with damaged brains. Available from: https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/09/06/1059032/memory-prosthesis-damaged-brains/
  3. Koroshetz WJ, Mucke L. Neurodegenerative Diseases: Where Are We Not Looking for Answers? In: Nikolich K, Hyman SE, editors. Translational Neuroscience: Toward New Therapies [Internet]. Cambridge (MA): MIT Press; 2015 [cited 2025 Mar 27]. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK569699/

From Thought to Movement: The Future of Bionic Limbs

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“The only way of discovering the limits of the possible is to venture a little way past they into the impossible.” – Arthur C. Clarke

Losing a limb or motor function can be life altering but what if you could regain control through the power of your own mind? Once a concept confined to science fiction, motor neuroprostheses and bionic limbs are now turning fiction into reality. By translating neural signals into motion, these mechanisms are helping individuals with amputations and paralysis regain independence.

As this technology advances it raises exciting possibilities but also ethical dilemmas. Who will have access to these life-changing innovations? Could such prostheses one day surpass biological limbs? In this blog, we’ll explore how neuroprostheses work, their real-life applications, and the challenges that may shape the future of such technology.

From Imitation to Innovation

Prosthetics have come a long way since their invention in 950 BC [1]. The first designs primarily focused on restoring appearance whilst, modern prosthetics aim to replicate movement and even restore lost sensations.

The video below provides a timeline of key advancements in prosthetic technology; showcasing how innovations have improved both functionality and quality of life for users.

What are Neuroprostheses?

Image source: Nature Biomedical Engineering, A biointegrated and wireless anatomically conformal electronic system for spinal cord neuromodulation
Nature Biomedical Engineering, A biointegrated and wireless anatomically conformal electronic system for spinal cord neuromodulation

At the present day, technology has advanced massively since the first prosthetic; leading to the development of neuroprostheses. Neuroprostheses are bio-hybrid devices that connect electrodes to human tissue to activate neurons or record their activity; in order to regain or amplify lost motor, sensory or cognitive functions [2].

Even after an individual loses a limb or the control of a limb the brain signals responsible for the control of the limb remain in tact. Neuroprostheses takes advantage of this; electrodes are implanted into the area of the brain related to the lost movement, and record electrical activity. These brain signals are then translated to control signals via processing through brain computer interfaces (BCI) or brain machine interfaces (BMI). These control signals can then be used to operate external devices such as robotic arms or they can be used to stimulate the muscle directly to restore lost motor function [3].

Navigating the Ethics of Enhancing Humanity

As promising as neuroprosthetic technology is, it also rases concern to complex ethical dilemmas. How far should we go in enhancing human abilities? What are the consequences of merging biology with advanced technology? How accessible should these life-changing innovations be? These are just a few questions sparking debate as we push the boundaries of what’s possible with bionic limbs and neuroprosthetics. While the potential benefits may be undeniable, it’s important to consider any potential risks and moral implications of integrating technology into the human body.

Image courtesy of The Sun – ‘Children’s Experiences with Bionic Arms.’

One of the most pressing ethical concerns surrounding neuroprosthetics is their accessibility. For example, in a recent article about children receiving bionic arms as life-changing gifts, it’s highlighted that bionic arms can cost up to £180,000, making them unattainable for many families unless supported by generous donations. This raises an essential question: should life-changing technologies be available only to those who can afford them?

With cutting edge innovations being financially exclusive, we risk deepening existing inequalities within healthcare; leaving the most vulnerable without access to the help they need. As neuroprosthetics evolve, it’s crucial that we address how to make these life altering devices accessible to everyone, not just those with the means to pay. While the physical and emotional benefits for those who receive them are undeniable, the ethical dilemma of who can access these advancements remain a critical issue.

In conclusion, neuroprosthetics are a powerful example of pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. The future of neuroprosthetics relies not only on innovation but on making these life-changing technologies equitable and accessible.

References:

  1. Admin U. UPMC HealthBeat. 2015 [cited 2025 Mar 11]. Timeline: Prosthetic Limbs Through the Years. Available from: https://share.upmc.com/2015/03/timeline-prosthetic-limbs-years/
  2. Neuroprosthetics – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics [Internet]. [cited 2025 Mar 11]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/neuroprosthetics
  3. Gupta A, Vardalakis N, Wagner FB. Neuroprosthetics: from sensorimotor to cognitive disorders. Commun Biol. 2023 Jan 6;6(1):1–17.