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.'"

Comments

Noodly Appendages

[Kratisto]

Exactly. The further science comes, the closer scientists will be to proving the existence of the Flying Spaghetti Monster: The source of creation, consciousness, and morality. Finally, we can have world peace when the people of Earth are united in worship of the one, true God.

Re:Laser Heads

[oneirophrenos]

Like with all drugs that activate the nucleus accumbens, you'd develop tolerance. Soon even the largest laser doses wouldn't suffice, and you'd become a laser addict, roaming the streets, rummaging through trash containers, trying to find old CD drives to get your laser fix. Is that really the kind of life you want for yourself?

Some pics

[aztektum]

Here's a pic of the subject hooked up to the machine.

Spinal damage

[quantumphaze]

I wonder if this can be applied to other purposes like bypassing damaged sections of a paraplegics spinal cord.

We would need to develop a neuron to laser device at the other end first, but the possibilities of making people walk again are worth investment.