Innovative Biological Computing: Cortical Labs' Breakthrough
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Chapter 1: Understanding Biological Computing
Cortical Labs, an Australian startup, is pioneering the development of computer chips that utilize biological neurons. This innovative approach aims to address the significant energy demands associated with current AI systems. Researchers have been investigating ways to replicate the efficiency of the human brain, which could potentially resolve this critical issue.
One of the key breakthroughs in this area has been the introduction of neuromorphic chips by Intel, designed to mimic the functionality of the human brain. Additionally, advancements in neuroscience have led to the creation of artificial neurons, with successful integration of biological and artificial neurons occurring online.
Section 1.1: Cortical Labs' Innovative Approach
Based in Melbourne, Cortical Labs is taking this research a step further by constructing miniature, disembodied brains that combine biological neurons with specialized computer chips. Founded in June, the company has secured approximately $610,000 in seed funding from a notable Australian venture capital firm.
To create this groundbreaking technology, Cortical Labs employs two primary methods: the extraction of mouse neurons from embryos and a technique that transforms human skin cells into stem cells, eventually developing them into human neurons.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Future of AI
The company aims to harness the capabilities of synthetic biology and the full potential of the human brain to develop a new generation of AI solutions that can tackle society's most pressing issues.
Next, these neurons are immersed in a nutrient-rich liquid atop a specialized metal-oxide chip featuring 22,000 minuscule electrodes. This setup allows programmers to input electrical signals to the neurons and monitor their responses.
Section 1.2: Achievements and Recognition
The miniaturized brains developed through this process demonstrate processing capabilities comparable to those of a dragonfly brain, enabling them to play the classic Atari game, Pong. This achievement is particularly noteworthy, as the same game was previously utilized by DeepMind to showcase its AI algorithms in 2013 before being acquired by Google in 2014.
Karl Friston, a prominent neuroscientist from University College London recognized for his work in brain imaging, recently observed Cortical Labs’ technology and expressed admiration for their progress. Some aspects of their system are informed by Friston’s research.
Chapter 2: Industry Comparisons and Future Implications
Friston anticipated that his research would contribute to the creation of more efficient neuromorphic chips, similar to Intel's recent advancements. However, he was surprised by the integration of biological neurons with contemporary computer chips, stating, “What this group has been able to do is, to my mind, the right way forward to making these ideas work in practice.”
Video: Biological AI? Company combines brain cells with silicon chips for smarter artificial intelligence
This video discusses how Cortical Labs is integrating biological neurons with technology to create more efficient AI.
Moreover, Cortical Labs is not alone in the pursuit of biological computing. Another startup, Koniku, based in California, has developed a 64-neuron silicon chip utilizing mouse neurons, designed to detect specific chemicals, which may be useful for military and law enforcement applications. Meanwhile, researchers at MIT have ingeniously integrated a strain of bacteria into a hybrid chip for their computing systems.
In a comparison of energy consumption, DeepMind's AlphaGo, which defeated the top human player in the ancient game of Go in 2016, required one megawatt of power to operate, while the human brain only consumes about 20 watts. Despite the remarkable achievement, the energy demands of AI systems have raised concerns.
If Cortical Labs can successfully scale its innovative developments, it could offer solutions to one of the most persistent challenges in advancing technology.
Video: Brain on a Chip, Pong, and the Future of Computing -- Cortical Labs Founder Dr. Hon Chong
This video features Dr. Hon Chong discussing the implications of biological computing and its potential future applications.
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