A brain chip company backed by OpenAI founder Sam Altman is developing an innovative gene therapy approach to enhance brain-computer interface technology, according to sources familiar with the venture's plans. The company, known as Merge Labs, represents Altman's entry into direct competition with Elon Musk's Neuralink in the rapidly evolving brain-computer interface sector.
Novel Gene Therapy Integration
Merge Labs is exploring a unique technological approach that combines gene therapy with ultrasound-based neural monitoring. The proposed system would genetically modify brain cells to make them more compatible with implant technology, according to people familiar with the plans who weren't authorized to speak publicly. An ultrasound device implanted in the head would then detect and modulate activity in these modified cells.
This approach differs significantly from existing brain-computer interface technologies, including those developed by Neuralink and other companies, which primarily rely on electrical signals to communicate with the brain rather than ultrasound-based systems.
Funding and Development Status
The venture is reportedly seeking to raise $250 million at an $850 million valuation, with much of the support expected to come from OpenAI's ventures team, according to Financial Times reporting. Altman is co-founding the company but not personally investing in it, the report indicated.
The technology remains in early developmental stages and could evolve significantly as research progresses. "We have not done that deal yet," Altman told journalists at a dinner Thursday in San Francisco when asked about the brain-computer interface venture. "I would like us to."
Competitive Landscape and Vision
Altman's entry into the brain-computer interface field positions him against longtime rival Elon Musk, whose Neuralink company is developing brain implants with short-term goals of treating disease and long-term ambitions of enhancing human cognitive abilities. Current brain-computer interface applications are already enabling paralyzed patients to control electronic devices and helping people who cannot speak to communicate.
Altman articulated his vision for the technology's potential, stating his desire to "think something and have ChatGPT respond to it." This goal reflects the broader ambitions of brain-computer interface companies to create seamless connections between human cognition and artificial intelligence systems.
Broader Industry Context
The brain-computer interface sector encompasses both invasive implant technologies and noninvasive devices worn outside the head. Technology billionaires and investors are particularly optimistic about the potential for external devices to treat mental health conditions, while implantable systems focus on more direct neural communication and control applications.
The gene therapy approach being explored by Merge Labs represents one of several technological pathways the company is investigating as it develops its brain-computer interface platform. OpenAI declined to provide comment on the venture's specific plans or timeline.
