The Prosthetic Brain

http://www.popsci.com/scitech/article/2007-04/memory-hacker

I came across this article a couple days ago and found it to be extremely interesting and relatable to the nature of our field. This article, titled “The Memory Hacker” discusses the advancements in a scientist’s efforts, namely Ted Berger, to mimic the human brain. The goal of Dr. Berger’s research is to create a silicon computer chip that will be capable of exchanging information with neurons and be able to “fluently speak the language of the brain.” Personally, I find this area of study particularly attractive because I have always been fascinated with the inner-workings of the brain. The idea that scientists will one day be able to spawn an artificial brain from mere plastics and wires is simply compelling. As bioengineers, we focus our work toward aiding the human body through technology and engineering; Berger’s research epitomizes the nature of our studies. As of today, Berger’s team is only capable of creating a chip that is equivalent to 12,000 neurons; however, they have high aspirations that within our lifetime a working artificial brain will be engineering to fit in the palm of our hands. Once completed, Berger’s device will be able to freely communicate and exchange information with nerve cells by recording and interpreting the period electrical pulses. Ultimately, this chip could be used as a “bridge” over damaged brain cell. With this technology, neurotic diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, will be no more. Each and every one of us will have the opportunity to contribute to this research as biomedical engineers.

Oscar Carrasco-Zevallos
VTPP 434 501