Paradromics is a brain-computer interface (BCI) company developing high-bandwidth, implantable neural interfaces designed to restore communication for individuals with paralysis and neurological conditions. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in San Jose, California, Paradromics aims to create bidirectional brain-machine interfaces that can record from thousands of [neurons](/entities/neurons) simultaneously and stimulate neural activity with high precision["@paradromics"].
The company has emerged as a leading contender in the race to develop clinically viable, high-bandwidth neural interfaces, with a focus on helping patients with severe motor impairments regain the ability to communicate and interact with the world around them.
History and Development
Founding (2015)
Paradromics was founded in 2015 by a team of neuroscientists and engineers with backgrounds in neural interface technology, semiconductor design, and medical device development. The company was established with the goal of creating BCI technology that could achieve the bandwidth necessary for natural communication and control.
Material Science: Creating biocompatible, long-lasting materials
Signal Processing: Building the data acquisition and decoding systems
Preclinical Testing: Validating technology in animal models
Funding and Growth (2019-2022)
2019: Secured $20 million in Series A funding
2020: Announced FDA Breakthrough Device Designation
2021: Expanded team to over 50 employees
2022: Completed preclinical trials, preparing for human trials
Recent Developments (2023-Present)
2023: Submitted IDE application to FDA
2024: Preparing for first human clinical trials
2024: Expanded manufacturing capabilities
Technology
Connexus® Direct Data Interface (DDI)
Paradromics' flagship product is the Connexus® Direct Data Interface, a fully implantable BCI designed for patients with locked-in syndrome, severe paralysis, or neurodegenerative diseases affecting motor function[@fda].
Key Technical Features
High Channel Count: Records from thousands of individual neurons simultaneously (up to 1,024 channels)
Wireless Data Transmission: Eliminates the need for percutaneous (through-skin) connections
Chronic Stability: Designed for long-term implantation (10+ years)
Bidirectional Capability: Both recording and stimulation functions
Miniaturized Form Factor: Small, fully implantable package
Neural Array Design
Paradromics uses a modular array design with multiple electrode sites distributed across a flexible substrate:
Array Specifications
Electrode Count: Up to 1,024 electrodes per array
Electrode Spacing: Optimized for single-unit recording
Material: Platinum-iridium tips with flexible polymer backing
Impedance: Low impedance for high-quality signals
Longevity: Designed for chronic implantation
Biocompatibility Features
Flexible Substrate: Minimizes mechanical mismatch with brain tissue