Neurotechnology and Brain-Computer Interface Research: GTEC’s Expertise Supporting META-BRAIN

The META-BRAIN project aims to precisely control brain activity exploring two minimally invasive technologies: magnetoelectric nanostructures and ultrasound. The project will also develop a closed-loop system to stimulate the brain and record its activity. This will help with simulations and testing computational models.

With this ambitious objective, expert partners in various fields have joined together in META-BRAIN, including g.tec medical engineering GmbH (GTEC), a pioneering Austrian company in the field of neurotechnology and brain-computer interface (BCI) research.

Founded in 1999 by Dr. Christoph Guger and Dr. Günter Edlinger, GTEC has consistently led the charge in medical engineering, developing groundbreaking technologies that connect neural activity with external devices. With a relentless focus on innovation and quality, GTEC has established itself as a global leader in BCI systems, neurorehabilitation technologies, and neurophysiological research tools.

GTEC specializes in creating advanced neurotechnology products. These include:

• BCIs for Communication and Control: Tools that enable direct interaction between the brain and external devices.
• Neurorehabilitation Devices: Equipment designed to aid motor recovery.
• Research Equipment for Neurophysiological Studies: Instruments for detailed brain research

GTEC’s innovations like biosignal amplifiers, wireless EEG systems, and neurorehabilitation systems are extensively used in clinical settings, research labs, and by individuals with disabilities, significantly enhancing quality of life and deepening our understanding of the human brain.

GTEC brings extensive engineering and scientific expertise to the META-BRAIN project. Their experience in recording and medical devices, along with their participation in initiatives like the Graphene Flagship and the BeMagic project, provides GTEC with valuable insights into graphene and magnetoelectric materials. This knowledge will support the definition of system specifications and the organization of experiments, contributing to the project’s success.

Within the META-BRAIN project, GTEC is responsible for several key tasks:

• Stimulation Hardware and Software: GTEC will develop an innovative magnetic stimulator prototype for low-intensity magnetic field stimulation. This stimulator will be ideal for both in vitro and in vivo experiments, integrating seamlessly with novel materials such as magnetoelectric nanoparticles. The robust hardware, coupled with a flexible and user-friendly interface, will empower researchers to fully explore the potential of magnetoelectric technology.
• Recording Hardware and Software: Advanced amplification systems will be developed for recording, designed to work with cutting-edge electrodes such as graphene solution-gated field effect transistors. These systems feature real-time recording and analysis. GTEC’s extensive experience in recording technology guarantees the best results in data acquisition and analysis.
• Closed Loop Strategies: In collaboration with project partners, GTEC will explore closed-loop strategies integrating stimulation and recording. GTEC will provide essential knowledge, software, and hardware to facilitate effective closed-loop systems, enhancing the feedback and control mechanisms in experimental setups.
• Commercialization and business plan: This task will help develop the necessary steps for future use as a medical device. These include device certification, production scaling, framework conditions, and quality control.

• Christoph Guger: As the co-founder and CEO of GTEC, Christoph has been instrumental in driving the company’s vision and strategy. With a background in biomedical engineering, he has led numerous research projects and innovations in BCI technology.
• Ren Xu: As a key member of the GTEC team, Ren brings extensive experience in neurotechnology and project management. He plays a crucial role in coordinating the META-BRAIN project, ensuring that GTEC’s contributions align with the overall objectives and timelines.
• Stratis Matsoukis: Another integral member of the GTEC team, Stratis brings expertise in neurotechnology and software development. His contributions are vital in developing and refining the BCI systems used in the META-BRAIN project.

GTEC is at the forefront of neurotechnology, driving advancements in BCI through innovative projects, including META-BRAIN. With a dedicated team and a commitment to excellence, GTEC is set to shape the future of neurotechnology by creating real-world solutions that improve lives.

Since its inception, GTEC has been driven by a passion for innovation and a dedication to enhancing human capabilities through technology. Dr. Christoph Guger, with a background in biomedical engineering, envisioned a company that could translate complex neural signals into meaningful actions. Over the years, GTEC has grown from a small startup into a globally recognized leader in neurotechnology, with offices and partners around the world.