Merge Labs, a brain-computer interface startup, has appointed award-winning biomolecular engineer Mikhail Shapiro to join its founding team alongside co-founder Alex Blania. Shapiro, known for his expertise in noninvasive neural imaging and control techniques, is expected to play a key role in the company’s efforts to develop a brain-computer interface that does not require invasive procedures.
Shapiro’s background in biomolecular engineering at Caltech has focused on using ultrasound to interact with the human brain without the need for open-skull surgery. Merge Labs is reportedly exploring gene therapy approaches for its initial product, leveraging Shapiro’s work in making cells responsive to ultrasound.
During a recent presentation, Shapiro discussed the potential of sound waves and magnetic fields in developing a brain-computer interface that avoids the need for electrode insertion into brain tissue. He emphasized the importance of modifying cells to respond to ultrasound, stating that his goal is to create less invasive methods for interfacing with neurons in the brain and other cells in the body.
Merge Labs’ approach diverges from the more invasive techniques used by Neuralink, as the company aims to develop a noninvasive brain-computer interface. This aligns with Merge Labs CEO Sam Altman’s expressed disapproval of invasive methods for interfacing with the brain.
Source: The Verge