Netherlands Scientists Create Artificial Human Brain Cells Using?Salt?And?Water

Scientists at Utrecht University in the Netherlands have successfully constructed a gadget that can imitate brain synapses using simple substances such as salt and water. This device, which is only 150 to 200 micrometers in size, processes information using salt and water, much like human brains do. The journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) has published details about the development of this unique technology.

Although artificial synapses are made from solid materials, this is the first time an aqueous memristor has been used to produce a neuromorphic (brian-like) computer.

Who is the lead author of the study?

This is the first time an aqueous memristor has been used to produce a neuromorphic computer | Image: Generated on DALL.E

Tim Kamsma, Utrecht University Ph.D. candidate and lead author of the study, in a press statement said, ¡°While artificial synapses capable of processing complex information already exist based on sold materials, we now show for the first time that this feat can also be accomplished using salt and water¡± said Utrecht University Ph.D. candidate and lead author of the study in a press statement.

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The researchers at Utrecht University wanted to simulate neuronal behavior with a system that used the same medium as the brain: salt and water. It was later developed by experts in South Korea. The computer device is referred to as an Iontronic Memristor. It is formed like a cone and filled with a salt-water solution.

How does it all work?

When the gadget receives an electrical impulse, the ions begin migrating along the channel, altering the surrounding ion environment. It establishes neuronal connections similar to those found in our brains.

If an impulse is unusually powerful or protracted, the conductivity of the channel changes proportionally | Image: unsplash

If an impulse is unusually powerful or protracted, the conductivity of the channel changes proportionally. Kamsma also mentioned that the length of the channel is important while making adjustments.

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According to Kamsma, this suggests that Iontronic Memristors can be programmed to recall prior electrical charges, similar to the synaptic systems found in our brains.

What ways can this innovation help human beings?

According to Tim Kamsma, a theoretical physicist at Utrecht University, this is a crucial step toward creating a computer that can not only emulate the communication patterns of the human brain but also use the same media. Artificial synapses capable of processing complicated information are now available based on solid materials.

This is a crucial step toward creating a computer that can not only emulate the communication patterns of the human brain | Image: Unsplash

"Perhaps this will eventually pave the way for computing systems that better replicate the extraordinary capabilities of the human brain," said Tim Kamsma, the study's lead author.

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