While mind control as we imagine it is still science-fiction, scientists have invented a device with which they can control neural circuits using a small brain implant controlled by a mobile phone.
Brains are made up of specialised nerve cells called neurones; in order for our brains to do anything, from conscious thought to processing information such as sound, neurones need to work together. In order for neurones to work together, they are assembled into networks known as neural circuits[1]. A team of researchers from Korea and the US have invented a device which allows these neural circuits to be controlled using a smartphone and a tiny brain implant, which could be used to speed up the process of diagnosing brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, depression and more[2].
Connecting to the brain
The device, developed by scientists from the University of Washington and the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, uses plug-like drug cartridges and powerful Bluetooth energy to target neurones with drugs and light. This wireless method could revolutionise the way neuroscientists can connect to the brain, which currently involves metal tubes and optical fibres. These tubes and optical fibres can damage the brain’s soft tissue; this method is impractical for long-term use as it requires patients to have limited movement due to wired connections. In the past, soft probes and other wireless systems have been developed[3], but these prototypes failed to deliver drugs for a long period of time.
Wireless drug delivery
In order to deliver drugs to the brain with the touch of a smartphone, researchers had to address the issue of a finite supply of drug in their implant. To tackle this, their device has replaceable cartridges integrated into a brain implant with a soft probe as thin as human hair, which also contains small LED lights. The implant allows researchers to release precise combinations and sequences of drug and light delivery. This is currently being tested in animal models, and it means that the specific combinations of light and drugs can be triggered with the test animal outside the lab and in its natural habitat.
Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and more
While this novel device has only been tested on mice, the team behind its development aims to eventually create a device which can be used on human brains. The team hopes to create “cyborg-like” brain-enhancement devices which could help maintain healthy neural function, or perhaps even boost brain aptitude. It is estimated that there are 46.8 million people living with dementia worldwide[4], and a further 10 million patients with Parkinson’s[5]. Scientists claim that this device could speed up efforts to diagnose these conditions and more, ultimately leading to quicker treatment.
Conclusion
While this news may not be the brain-controlling smartphones we like to imagine, it is a step forward in the direction of potential improvements in diagnostics and drug administration in the ever-developing and complex world of neuroscience. Who knows, maybe one day a better brain could be achieved at the touch of a screen?
By Marta Zima
