15 of 23 Monkeys Euthanized in Early Neuralink Trials Sparking Federal Probe

Concerns regarding the ethical treatment of animals in Neuralink's research have resurfaced, highlighted by a recent social media post stating, "POV: You are a Neuralink monkey." This commentary underscores ongoing scrutiny of the brain-computer interface company's animal testing practices, which have been the subject of federal investigations and complaints from animal welfare organizations.

Elon Musk's Neuralink has faced a federal probe by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Inspector General. This investigation was prompted by internal staff complaints and allegations from groups like the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) regarding potential animal welfare violations. Records cited in a February 2022 PCRM complaint detailed that 15 of 23 monkeys implanted with Neuralink devices between 2017 and 2020 at the University of California, Davis, either died or were euthanized.

According to Reuters, company records and sources familiar with operations indicate Neuralink has been responsible for the deaths of approximately 1,500 animals, including over 280 sheep, pigs, and monkeys, since 2018. Current and former employees reportedly raised concerns about a culture that prioritizes rapid results, allegedly leading to botched surgeries and insufficient veterinary care. Neuralink has consistently defended its animal research, asserting that all procedures comply with federal regulations and that the company strives for the most humane animal care possible.

The ethical debate surrounding Neuralink's animal experiments gained significant public attention in 2021 when the company released a video showcasing a macaque monkey named Pager. Pager was seen playing the video game Pong using only its mind, demonstrating the advanced capabilities of the implanted brain-computer interface. While impressive, this demonstration further fueled discussions about the morality and necessity of such animal testing.

Despite these ongoing animal welfare concerns and investigations, Neuralink achieved a significant milestone in its development. In late 2023, the company received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to commence its first in-human clinical trial, known as the PRIME Study. This trial is currently recruiting participants with quadriplegia or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to evaluate the safety and initial functionality of the implant and surgical robot.