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Researcher Implants Laser-Activated Brain Cells

destinyland writes "A Stanford researcher has spliced light-sensitive algae genes into human brain cells to fire neurons when activated by a laser. Light is shined through an implanted fiber optic cable (blue light on, yellow light off), and the procedure can target very specific deep brain structures too fragile for most surgery. 'Once the researcher attaches the other end of the cable to a laser, he or she has absolute and flawless control over that group of neurons.' Science writer Quinn Norton cites it as a first attempt at 'building useful handles on the very things that make us ourselves.'"

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  1. Re:Tinfoil glasses? by MightyMartian · · Score: -1, Offtopic

    Just wait until they have the laser-enabled toilet paper. New World Order, here we come!

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    The world's burning. Moped Jesus spotted on I50. Details at 11.