In a ground-breaking initiative, scientists are mapping out a strategy to investigate a potentially transformative new field of study known as “organoid intelligence”. This promising venture aims to produce “biocomputers”, which would involve merging 3-dimensional brain cultures developed in laboratories with real-world sensors and output/input devices. The anticipation is that this technology will manipulate the processing power of the human brain to comprehend the biological basis of cognition, learning and various neurological disorders in humans.
Understanding Organoid Intelligence
Organoid intelligence deals with “mini-brains” that measure up to 4 mm, fabricated using human stem cells. These organoids capture many structural and operational elements of a developing human brain and serve as an excellent platform to study its growth and to test drug reactions. However, brain organoids created in labs aren’t as advanced due to the absence of essential sensory inputs and blood circulation necessary for the development of a complex organ like the human brain.
Interestingly, scientists implanted human brain organoid cultures into rat brains and noticed that they established connections with the rat brain and showcased functional activity. This method could open doors to investigate brain diseases within a human framework. However, the rat-brain microenvironment in which the organoids reside may not accurately represent the human brain.
Emergence of the Bio-computer
The idea is to couple brain organoids with cutting-edge computing techniques using machine learning to create “bio-computers”. Researchers plan to cultivate organoids within structures equipped with multiple electrodes capable of recording neuron firing patterns and replicating sensory stimuli. Machine-learning methods would then be implemented to examine the influence of neuron response patterns on human behavior or biology.
Scientists have already made significant progress by growing human neurons on a microelectrode array and training them to produce electrical activity akin to electron generation in games like table tennis.
Potential Opportunities with Bio-Computers
Brain organoids derived from stem cells of individuals afflicted with diseases like Parkinson’s disease or microcephaly could bolster drug development for these conditions. These organoids can offer valuable insights into the biological basis of human cognition, learning, and memory by comparing brain structure, connections, and signaling data between healthy and patient-derived organoids. Despite being slower than computers at simple arithmetic, human brains are remarkably adept at processing complex information.
The Future of Bio-Computers
At present, brain organoids have a diameter of less than 1 mm, which is roughly three-millionths the size of an actual human brain. Therefore, it’s imperative that the size of the brain organoid is increased to enhance its computing capacity. For this, neural recordings from every neuron and connection will be necessary, requiring a ‘Big Data’ infrastructure for storage and analysis.
Additionally, researchers need to establish microfluidic systems to transport oxygen and nutrients, as well as remove waste products. As this research progresses, it will also be essential to identify, discuss, and address ethical concerns that might arise. The future lies in understanding and addressing these challenges to create a better-defined path for the application of bio-computers.
