Precision Neuroscience has acquired a manufacturing plant in Dallas to expedite the production of its brain implant component, the Layer 7 Cortical Interface. The facility will enable the company to accelerate development and move closer to obtaining regulatory approval, anticipated in 2024. Precision Neuroscience’s brain implant, currently undergoing human testing, aims to assist people with paralysis in operating digital devices using brain signals.
The company’s electrode array, thinner than a human hair, rests on the brain’s surface, providing real-time, high-resolution rendering of neural activity without causing damage. This acquisition positions Precision to make rapid design improvements, enhance performance, and iterate on the device’s form factor efficiently. The flexible design of its electrode array allows for quick iteration and improvement in performance and longevity.
Precision Neuroscience operates in the brain-computer interface (BCI) industry alongside companies like Neuralink, Paradromics, Blackrock Neurotech, and Synchron. Co-founder and Chief Science Officer Dr. Benjamin Rapoport was also involved in the founding of Neuralink. Unlike Neuralink’s more invasive approach, Precision’s implant technology takes a less invasive route. While retaining the 11 key personnel from the manufacturing facility acquisition, Precision has kept production in-house to enable better control over design changes, protect trade secrets, and maintain supply levels.
By directly overseeing production, the company can ensure the safety and high quality of its arrays. The acquisition has already improved the company’s supply levels significantly, allowing it to manufacture more than 100 arrays in a week. Precision recently received a Breakthrough Device designation from the FDA, signaling its potential to provide improved treatment for debilitating or life-threatening conditions.
The designation facilitates closer communication between Precision and the FDA, expediting the path to commercialization. Despite ongoing regulatory testing, Precision is optimistic about its trajectory and aims to create value in the neurotech space by maintaining control over its manufacturing process and technology innovation.
