The Week of

A new brain-computer interface company, Epia Neuro, came out of stealth. It’s developing a dual-phase system that combines a minimally invasive “read/write” brain implant with AI and assistive devices. The goal is straightforward: interpret neural intent, like moving a hand, and convert it into real movement using external tools.

Epia’s approach is a bit different from traditional recovery protocols in that instead of helping patients adapt, it’s designed to restore function by reinforcing neural pathways over time, potentially reducing dependence on the device altogether.

The implant sits under the skull without penetrating deep brain tissue, can be deployed in under an hour, and is designed to be upgradeable. First human trials are expected later this year in New York, targeting a patient population that could reach tens of thousands annually in the U.S. Here’s more: https://substack.com/home/post/p-193358650.

Scientists just used artificial intelligence to design a drug that reduced fentanyl use in addicted rats.

GATC Health built the compound using its AI platform, Operon, which analyzed brain data from people with opioid use disorder to identify viable drug targets. The model zeroed in on two serotonin receptors, then iterated rapidly to engineer molecules optimized to bind to them.

Researchers tested the top candidates in opioid-dependent rats. One compound in particular, GATC-102, significantly reduced drug cravings without observable side effects. Check it out: https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2516807123

CorTec Neuro announced a win after receiving Breakthrough Device designation from the FDA for its Brain Interchange system, a brain-computer interface designed to restore movement in stroke patients.

The device uses direct cortical stimulation in a closed-loop system, meaning it can both read brain signals and stimulate neural activity in real time to support motor recovery.

What makes this notable is that it’s the first BCI specifically designated for stroke motor rehabilitation, targeting a massive unmet need, with millions of strokes each year and roughly half of patients left with permanent disability despite rehab.

The technology is already being tested in humans, and the FDA designation is expected to accelerate development and bring the device closer to commercialization. Check it out: https://cortec-neuro.com/cortec-receives-fda-breakthrough-device-designation-for-its-brain-interchange-system-in-stroke-rehabilitation-the-first-bci-worldwide-designated-for-stroke-motor-rehabilitation/

Did you know that a single dose of psilocybin may cause lasting changes in what people value most in life?

In a controlled clinical study, healthy volunteers reported greater self-acceptance, deeper appreciation for life, and increased concern for others. These changes lasted for weeks to months after just one session.

Interestingly, these shifts didn’t come from changes in personality traits or mental health. They were linked to the intensity of the psychedelic experience itself, especially feelings of unity, euphoria, and “oneness.” Participants also showed less focus on material success (like money or status) and more emphasis on meaning and relationships. Check it out: https://www.psypost.org/psilocybin-triggers-lasting-changes-in-personal-values-for-healthy-volunteers/