FDA Neuralink Reviewers Dismissed as Musk’s DOGE Company Reduces Workforce

# **FDA Neuralink Reviewers Dismissed as Musk’s DOGE Company Reduces Workforce**

## **Introduction**

Elon Musk’s Neuralink, a company focused on developing brain-computer interfaces, has been under intense scrutiny from regulators and the public. Recently, reports have surfaced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) dismissed key reviewers overseeing Neuralink’s human trials. At the same time, another Musk-affiliated company, Dogecoin (DOGE)-focused X Payments (formerly Twitter Payments), has reportedly reduced its workforce. These developments raise concerns about regulatory oversight, corporate restructuring, and the future of Musk’s ambitious ventures.

## **FDA Dismisses Neuralink Reviewers**

Neuralink has been working toward implanting brain chips in humans, aiming to help individuals with neurological disorders regain mobility and communication abilities. However, the company has faced multiple regulatory hurdles, including concerns over safety, animal testing practices, and long-term risks associated with brain implants.

According to recent reports, the FDA dismissed several key reviewers responsible for evaluating Neuralink’s human trials. While the exact reasons for their removal remain unclear, speculation suggests internal disagreements over safety concerns and regulatory compliance. Some critics argue that this move could weaken oversight and accelerate Neuralink’s approval process without addressing critical safety risks.

### **Concerns Over Neuralink’s Safety**

Neuralink has faced scrutiny for its testing practices, particularly regarding animal experiments. Reports indicate that the company has conducted tests on monkeys, pigs, and other animals, with some suffering severe complications. The FDA initially rejected Neuralink’s request for human trials in early 2022 due to concerns over implant migration, overheating, and potential brain damage. However, the agency later granted approval in 2023, allowing the company to proceed with its first human trials.

The dismissal of FDA reviewers raises concerns about whether Neuralink is receiving adequate regulatory scrutiny. If key safety experts are removed from the review process, it could lead to rushed approvals that may put human participants at risk.

## **Musk’s DOGE Company Reduces Workforce**

In a separate but related development, Musk’s Dogecoin-focused payment initiative, X Payments (formerly Twitter Payments), has reportedly reduced its workforce. The company, which was expected to integrate cryptocurrency payments into X (formerly Twitter), has faced delays in obtaining necessary licenses across multiple U.S. states.

The workforce reduction suggests that X Payments may be scaling back its ambitions or restructuring its operations. Some analysts believe that regulatory challenges and market volatility in the cryptocurrency sector have contributed to the decision. Others speculate that Musk is reallocating resources to focus on more immediate priorities, such as Neuralink and Tesla’s AI initiatives.

## **Implications for Musk’s Companies**

### **1. Regulatory Challenges**
Both Neuralink and X Payments are facing significant regulatory hurdles. The FDA’s handling of Neuralink’s trials and the slow approval process for X Payments’ licenses highlight the difficulties Musk’s companies encounter when dealing with government agencies.

### **2. Ethical and Safety Concerns**
The removal of FDA reviewers overseeing Neuralink’s trials raises ethical concerns about the safety of human test subjects. If regulatory oversight is weakened, it could lead to unforeseen complications and potential legal challenges.

### **3. Financial and Strategic Adjustments**
The workforce reduction at X Payments suggests that Musk is making strategic adjustments to his business ventures. Whether this is a temporary restructuring or a sign of deeper financial concerns remains to be seen.

## **Conclusion**

The recent developments surrounding Neuralink and X Payments highlight the complex interplay between regulatory oversight, corporate restructuring, and technological ambition. The dismissal of FDA reviewers raises questions about the safety of Neuralink’s human trials, while the workforce reduction at X Payments signals potential shifts in Musk’s business strategy. As these stories continue to unfold, the public and regulators will be watching closely to see how Musk’s ventures navigate these challenges.

### **What’s Next?**
– Will Neuralink face additional regulatory scrutiny following the FDA reviewer dismissals?
– How will X Payments’ workforce reduction impact its cryptocurrency payment plans?
– What broader implications do these developments have for Musk’s business empire?

Only time will tell how these events will shape the future of Neuralink, X Payments, and Musk’s broader vision for technology and innovation.