Merge Labs, With OpenAI Interest, Considers Combining Gene Therapy and Ultrasound for Brain Chips

A brain chip company, reportedly called Merge Labs, is exploring a new approach that combines gene therapy with an ultrasound device to create better brain implants. The company, which has drawn interest and support from OpenAI and its CEO, Sam Altman, is still in the early stages of development.

Key Details of the Technology

The technology being explored by Merge Labs involves two main components:

• Gene Therapy: Genetically altering brain cells to make them responsive to an external signal.
• Ultrasound Device: An implantable device that would be able to detect and modulate activity in the modified cells using ultrasound waves.

This approach is based on a field of research known as sonogenetics, which studies how to genetically modify cells to make them respond to ultrasound. Unlike technologies that rely on electrical signals, such as those being developed by Elon Musk’s Neuralink, Merge Labs’ proposed method uses a different form of communication with the brain.

Market and Competition

The brain-computer interface (BCI) field is a growing area of interest for technology billionaires and investors.

• Merge Labs: The company is reportedly seeking to raise $250 million at an $850 million valuation, with significant backing from OpenAI’s ventures team. Sam Altman, who is a co-founder, is also an investor in rival company Neuralink.
• Neuralink: A key competitor in the space, Neuralink is building brain implants that communicate using electrical signals. Its short-term goal is to treat diseases, while its long-term ambition is to enhance human abilities.
• Noninvasive Ultrasound: Other companies are also exploring the use of ultrasound for brain therapy. Companies like Fred Ehrsam’s Nudge are developing noninvasive devices, such as helmets, that use low-intensity focused ultrasound to treat psychiatric conditions.