September 5th, 2024

Scientists Create Robot Controlled by Blob of Human Brain Cells

Researchers from Tianjin University and Southern University of Science and Technology developed a robot controlled by human brain organoids, exploring brain-computer interfaces and potential applications for repairing brain damage.

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Scientists Create Robot Controlled by Blob of Human Brain Cells

A team of researchers from Tianjin University and the Southern University of Science and Technology in China has developed a small robot controlled by a blob of human brain cells, specifically organoids created from human pluripotent stem cells. This innovative project aims to explore brain-computer interfaces that connect brain electrical signals to computing systems. The robot, described as the "world’s first open-source brain-on-chip intelligent complex information interaction system," can learn to perform tasks such as avoiding obstacles and gripping objects. The researchers also envision potential applications for organoids in repairing human brain damage, such as in stroke patients. They have experimented with low-intensity ultrasound to enhance the integration of organoids into the human brain, which may offer a non-invasive method for aiding brain recovery. However, the research is still in early stages, and significant questions remain about the feasibility of using organoids for brain repair. Previous studies have shown promise, such as the insertion of human neurons into rat brains, which led to some recovery of function. Overall, this research represents a significant step toward understanding how lab-grown brain tissue could potentially restore brain functions in humans.

- Researchers have created a robot controlled by human brain organoids.

- The project aims to study brain-computer interfaces and their applications.

- There is potential for organoids to aid in repairing human brain damage.

- Low-intensity ultrasound is being explored to enhance organoid integration.

- The research is in early stages, with many questions about practical applications remaining.

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By @Stefan-H - 4 months
Those images of little robots with a ball of braincells on top looks like an image that would be in a montage explaining the lead-up to humanity's destruction. But it sure is nifty.