Revolutionary Computer: Experience the World’s First Fusion of Human Brain and Silicon!

There’s a groundbreaking new device on the market: the CL1, a biological computer made by Cortical Labs, a startup from Melbourne. Launched on March 2, the CL1 is described as the first code-deployable biological computer. This compact system could revolutionize areas like disease modeling and drug development.

So, how does it work? Inside the CL1, you’ll find human neurons nourished by a nutrient-rich solution. These neurons grow over a silicon chip that communicates with them through electrical signals. Cortical Labs has even trained a similar system, called DishBrain, to play the classic game Pong.

Brett Kagan, the chief scientific officer at Cortical Labs, explains that the perfusion circuit acts like a life support system for the neurons. It manages waste, temperature, and gas exchange, keeping the cells alive for up to six months. Remarkably, the system runs on just a few watts of power.

Research in neuroscience is complex. Most drugs designed for neurological and psychiatric conditions fail during trials, mainly because of the brain’s intricacies. Kagan notes that tools like the CL1 provide a clearer view of how the brain functions, making it easier to explore potential treatments for brain diseases.

Cortical Labs is still refining this technology to better mimic the diverse cell types and functions found in the human brain. This development might open doors for researchers to create more effective treatments.

However, integrating human neurons raises ethical questions. Some experts worry about the implications of creating “synthetic biological intelligence.” Although the CL1 and its predecessors are far less complex than human brains, concerns about consciousness and potential suffering have entered the conversation.

Silvia Velasco, a stem cell researcher not involved with the CL1 project, believes such concerns could stifle valuable advancements in treating brain diseases. “It’s crucial to weigh these ethical questions,” she states, emphasizing the potential benefits of this research for those suffering from neurological conditions.

The CL1 is expected to retail for about $35,000 and will be available broadly in late 2025. For researchers without the right lab facilities, Cortical Labs plans to offer a remote cloud-based computing option as an alternative.

As this technology evolves, it could reshape our understanding of the brain and open new pathways for medical research. For those interested in the cutting edge of neuroscience, the CL1 represents an exciting step forward.

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