Monkey Brain Waves Move and Feel Virtual Objects, Study Finds

Monkeys wired to a computer were able to move and feel images on a screen using only brain power, according to researchers who say the experiment may lead to devices to help paralyzed people regain movement and touch.

The research, carried out at the Duke University Center for Neuroengineering, was the first time a primate brain could receive tactile messages and interact with them, according to the study published today in the journal Nature. Previous studies have demonstrated monkeys could be trained to move a computer cursor with their thoughts.