Neurotechnologie

Neurotechnologie refers to the interdisciplinary field devoted to developing devices, software, and protocols that interact with the nervous system to monitor, modulate, or restore neural function. It brings together neuroscience, engineering, data science, and clinical practice to create interfaces between the brain or peripheral nerves and external devices.

Technologies are grouped as invasive, semi-invasive, or noninvasive. Invasive interfaces insert sensors or stimulators into the brain or nerves, offering high-resolution recording and precise modulation but involving surgical risk. Noninvasive methods include electroencephalography (EEG), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), which carry lower risk but offer milder effects.

Major applications include medical and assistive functions: neural prosthetics to restore motor or sensory function, deep brain and spinal cord stimulation for movement disorders and chronic pain, and brain-computer interfaces to enable communication for people with severe paralysis. Research tools and consumer devices also use neurotechnologies for cognitive monitoring, neurorehabilitation, and mental training.

Ethical, legal, and social considerations address safety, informed consent, privacy and autonomy over neural data, equitable access, and potential dual-use for enhancement or coercive purposes. Regulation varies by country and typically involves medical device pathways, clinical trials, and postmarket surveillance. Ongoing governance discussions emphasize transparency and long-term risk management.

History and outlook: foundational work in neurophysiology and neural stimulation evolved into modern brain-computer interfaces and implantable prosthetics. Notable efforts include implanted neural recording devices and regulatory programs; private and public research continues to push toward more durable, wireless, and closed-loop systems. The field envisions expanded clinical benefits alongside careful ethical oversight.