Building Computers from Human Brain Cells

Resident blogger, Dr Sam Moxon, Biomaterials scientist at The University of Manchester talks with Dr Eric Hill, Senior Lecturer in Stem cell biology and Bioethics from Aston University and Dr Paul Roach, Senior Lecturer in Biomaterials and Interface Science from Loughborough University, about their £3m Neu-ChiP Project. The Revolutionary Neu-ChiP project will see an international collaboration of scientists layer networks of stem cells resembling the human cortex onto microchips. They will then stimulate the cells by firing changing patterns of light beams at them. Sophisticated 3D computer modelling will allow them to observe any changes the cells undergo, to see how adaptable they are. This imitates the ‘plasticity’ of the human brain, which can rapidly adapt to new information - providing huge insights into the development of human neuronal networks. The applications of this work are have far reaching potential. _________________________ Dr Paul Roach Bio https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/profile-dr-paul-roach/ Dr Eric Hill Bio https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/profile-dr-eric-hill/ Information on the Neu-ChiP Project https://bit.ly/3vpyb7C A transcript of this podcast is also available here www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/podcast-building-computers-from-human-brain-cells _________________________ Register on our website to receive your weekly bulletin, and to access more great content – blogs, science, career support + much more http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Research UK and Alzheimer's Society, who we thank for their ongoing support.