Elon Musk’s brain implant company, Neuralink, is under investigation by the US Department of Transportation (USDOT). The investigation is looking into allegations that Neuralink may have illegally transported pathogen-laced devices removed from monkeys.
The allegations were made by an animal welfare group, the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM). PCRM sent a letter to the USDOT in February 2023, alleging that Neuralink had violated federal law by transporting pathogen-laced devices removed from monkeys in a manner that could have exposed the public to disease.
The USDOT confirmed that it is investigating the allegations. The agency said that it is “committed to protecting the safety of the public and the environment” and that it will “take appropriate action if any violations are found.”
Neuralink has denied the allegations. The company said that it “takes the safety of its animals and the public very seriously” and that it “complies with all applicable laws and regulations.”
The investigation is ongoing. It is unclear what the outcome of the investigation will be. However, the allegations have raised concerns about the safety of Neuralink’s research and the potential risks of brain implant technology.