The research conducted by Folcher and colleagues resembles a complex Rube Goldberg machine; it’s clear that mind-controlled gene expression is no simple feat. Here’s how the experiment unfolds: a human participant dons an electrode headset and sits in front of a computer. While engaged in a game or observing a visual landscape (we’ll delve into that shortly), a Bluetooth device transmits her brain activity to a controller that adjusts an electromagnetic field based on her relaxation levels. Sounds wild, right? This is where a rodent participant enters the scene.
Things get even crazier from here. As the mouse navigates through the electromagnetic field, a wireless implant beneath its skin emits near-infrared light, activating specially engineered cells. This activation sparks a series of chemical reactions, leading to the production of a protein known as secreted alkaline phosphatase (SEAP).
In simpler terms, as the human meditates, the mouse produces more protein. The authors describe this as “An electroencephalography (EEG)-based brain–computer interface (BCI) processing mental state-specific brain waves programs an inductively linked wireless-powered optogenetic implant containing designer cells engineered for near-infrared (NIR) light-adjustable expression of the human glycoprotein SEAP.” Quite a mouthful, isn’t it?
Now, back to the computer game and the serene landscape. The study mentions that to achieve a focused mental state, participants played Minesweeper, while meditation involved deep breathing while observing a still image on the LCD screen. (One can’t help but wonder—do laboratories still use Windows XP for such advanced neuroengineering? What does meditation even mean? And what kind of landscape was displayed—was it the iconic Windows XP wallpaper?)
The headset’s algorithms create a meditation index, albeit a somewhat rudimentary one. Additionally, the cells that produce SEAP weren’t mouse cells but rather human ones implanted into the mouse. Essentially, the mouse could just as well have been a petri dish (they did conduct that experiment too). Overall, while the work is impressive and memorable, it mostly represents early explorations—more adorable than alluring.
However, the concept of merging electrical signals with genetic manipulation—what could be termed an electrogenetic device—holds promise for modern medicine. According to Folcher and his team, these devices, when paired with brain activity, offer mind-genetic interfaces that could enhance current electronic-mechanical implants used in treatments like heart and brain pacemakers, cochlear aids, and insulin-releasing micropumps.
Perhaps such mind control isn’t the most efficient method, yet tapping into the brain’s rich electrical signals could be invaluable for conditions like epilepsy. If there’s a takeaway, it’s the potential for innovation in handling this data.
Exciting Advances in Neuroengineering
The paper in Nature Communications adds to a growing list of captivating neuroengineering research. For instance, last year, teams from Duke and Harvard Medical School explored “brain-to-brain interfaces” that enabled data exchange between two brains. One study showed how a rat’s actions influenced another rat’s decisions, while another demonstrated that a human’s recognition of a strobe light caused a rat’s tail to twitch.
More recently, researchers at Washington University claimed they created the first human brain-to-brain interface, translating one gamer’s motor imagery into actions—like clicking a touchpad—of another. These experiments are all initial steps towards more sophisticated applications.
Some buzzwords, like robotics, data, and 3D printing, are already relevant, especially within modern prosthetic science. The difference lies in how these concepts translate into real-world applications.
A mentor once remarked that scientists might pursue human cloning simply because they can, not out of necessity. While I enjoy diving into the latest brain-computer interfaces or mind-controlled gene manipulations, I often question whether these studies provide solutions to actual problems.
Nevertheless, there’s a case for serendipitous discoveries. For instance, a commonly prescribed anticoagulant began its journey as rat poison, and a particular little blue pill was initially intended for hypertension treatment until its other benefits were uncovered. Within Folcher and colleagues’ ambitious electrogenetic system, we might stumble upon breakthroughs for various neurological disorders or even uncover the next big thing in pharmaceuticals. Whether that’s considered sexy is up for debate.
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In summary, while the complexities of mind control and gene manipulation may initially seem like whimsical science, they hold the potential to revolutionize medicine and offer unexpected solutions to real-world problems.