WATCH | ROBOTS COULD PERFORM HUMAN HEAD TRANSPLANTS WITHIN A DECADE

Sat 15 June 2024:

It has been suggested that robots might be able to transplant a human head onto another person’s body within the next decade, potentially extending human life.

The neuroscience and biomedical engineering startup BrainBridge announced plans to develop new technology using artificial intelligence and robots for high-speed transplants. Speed is crucial in brain transplants to prevent tissue degradation.

BrainBridge’s method involves robots, controlled by AI algorithms, to remove a donor’s head and attach it to another body while preserving memories and cognitive abilities. The robots will connect the spinal cord, nerves, and blood vessels, using polyethylene glycol to reattach severed neurons. Although some research indicates this substance can aid in treating peripheral nerve damage, its effectiveness in a comprehensive head transplant remains uncertain.

“OFFERING A NEW LIFE TO CANCER AND PARALYSIS PATIENTS”

The plan involves using the bodies of young, healthy individuals who have suffered brain death, attaching them to the heads of people with cancer or paralysis, offering these patients a new lease on life. Molecular biologist Hashem Al-Ghaili, who is behind the project, stated:

“This state-of-the-art system offers new hope to patients suffering from untreatable conditions such as stage 4 cancer, paralysis, or neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.”

“CURRENTLY IN THE CONCEPT STAGE”

Al-Ghaili first mentioned this project last October, stating an 8-year roadmap lies ahead. BrainBridge emphasizes they are currently in the concept stage. The company also claims that these brains could last “several centuries.” If possible, head transplants onto young bodies could open a new door for extending human life.

HEAD TRANSPLANT EFFORTS ARE NOT NEW

Efforts in the scientific community regarding brain and head transplants are not new. In 2017, neurosurgeon Sergio Canavero claimed to have performed a brain transplant between two cadavers. Last year, Canavero also suggested it was now possible to perform brain transplants between living humans.

However, concerns remain regarding the transplantation of a complex organ like the brain. While BrainBridge claims patients will retain their consciousness, many questions about consciousness and memory retention remain unanswered, making it uncertain whether a patient undergoing such a transplant will wake up as planned.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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