Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery that has the potential to revolutionize the field of neuroscience. Researchers at the University of Sussex have successfully grown brain cells in a lab and trained them to play the classic video game Pong. This is a significant breakthrough that could lead to new treatments for neurological disorders and injuries.
The researchers used stem cells to grow neurons in a lab setting. They then used a technique called optogenetics to train the neurons to respond to light. By shining light on specific neurons, the researchers were able to control the cells’ activity and teach them to play Pong. The neurons were able to move the in-game paddle up and down to hit the ball, effectively playing the game.
This research not only demonstrates the potential of lab-grown brain cells, but it also provides new insights into how the brain works. The ability to control the activity of neurons in a lab setting could lead to new therapies for neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and spinal cord injuries. Additionally, the ability to train brain cells to perform specific tasks could help researchers better understand how the brain processes information.
As technology advances, the possibilities for lab-grown brain cells are endless. From playing games to helping in the treatment of diseases, this research opens up a new frontier in neuroscience. The ability to control the activity of neurons in a lab setting could lead to new therapies for neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and spinal cord injuries and could change the way we think about the brain and its capabilities.
As one of the researchers said, “It’s not often that you get to see a breakthrough that could change the world, but that’s exactly what we’re witnessing here.”