Real Neuron Computing: Access for Under $300 | Cortical Labs
- Cortical Labs, an australian startup, has released the CL1, a commercially available biological computer.
- Designed for research in neuroscience, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence, the CL1 offers a new platform for understanding brain function.
- The neurons communicate via electrical signals, enabling the CL1 too process inputs and generate outputs rapidly.
Cortical Labs Launches Neuron-Powered Biocomputer, CL1
Cortical Labs, an australian startup, has released the CL1, a commercially available biological computer. The system, capable of running code, integrates lab-grown human neurons with silicon hardware.
Designed for research in neuroscience, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence, the CL1 offers a new platform for understanding brain function. The device contains approximately 800,000 neurons cultivated from reprogrammed adult cells, sustained by an integrated life-support system.
The neurons communicate via electrical signals, enabling the CL1 too process inputs and generate outputs rapidly. cortical Labs offers the CL1 for outright purchase at $35,000. Alternatively, researchers can access the platform remotely for $300 per week through Cortical Labs’ wetware-as-a-service.
Brett Kagan, chief scientific officer at Cortical Labs, told IEEE Spectrum that the CL1 uses code abstracted through interacting firmware and hardware layers. He added that sub-millisecond loops read, act on, and write information into the cell culture.
The CL1 builds upon the DishBrain concept, where neurons learned to play Pong in a simulated environment. The new model features increased input channels, improved signal latency, and hardware enhancements. It has already been used to restore learning function in neural cultures modeling epilepsy.
The device consumes less power then conventional AI hardware and supports applications in drug growth,AI testing,and disease modeling. Ethical approval is required for new cell lines, and operation must occur within a lab environment. The CL1 plays a notable role in advancing research.
Theoretical neuroscientist Karl Friston called the CL1 a “remarkable achievement,” providing a practical platform for testing theories about learning, behavior, and brain function using real neurons.
What’s next
Cortical Labs plans to expand the CL1’s capabilities, exploring new applications in complex problem-solving and potentially creating more sophisticated biological computing systems.