Matrix prospects in the future

Blockbuster series The matrix over 10 years ago drew a scenario: In the future, people are connected to a giant network through a socket at the back of the head, from which the machine transmits and loads data their heads.

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Now, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) researchers have revealed a new type of cable that is narrower than the width of a human hair, bringing humanity closer to that perspective, but in a positive direction. Experts say the system can transfer optical and drug signals directly into the brain, while displaying electronic data to maintain continuous observation of the effects of data entry. materials or pharmaceuticals.

'We build nerve interfaces that will interact with cells in a more natural way than previously used devices , ' said MIT assistant professor Polina Anikeeva.

The incomparable complexity of the brain is always a difficult challenge to overcome when experts want to study its mechanism of action. Not only because of the delicate and fragile texture of the neural connections, but also because of the numerous methods of signaling that the brain regularly implements.

A scene from the Matrix - (Photo: Publicity Picture)

Previously, studies were only designed to recognize a single type of communication signal, limiting information that could be extracted from the brain. Meanwhile, devices used to record nerve signals are made of metal, semiconductors and glass, which can damage surrounding cells during travel.'It's a big problem in the field of artificial nerves , ' said Assistant Professor Anikeeva. He added that the old materials were too hard and sharp.

Things have changed when MIT experts find new approaches. By fabricating complex cables with a width smaller than that of hair , they create a system that can transmit optical signals and specific drug components directly into the brain.

This technology has been described in Nature Biotechnology . New strands made from polymer form have many similar characteristics to neurons, Anikeeva said, allowing them to remain in the body for a long time without damaging the delicate cells around them.

In order to do this, Anikeeva's team takes advantage of the advanced production technology developed by MIT Yoel Fink Professor to serve the research on photonics and other applications. The main result is 'soft, supple and more nerve-like polymer fibers '.

Prior to the new invention, Professor John Rogers of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (not participating in the study) appreciated MIT's report, welcoming the emergence of multifunctional artificial nerve fibers . They can be plugged into the brain to transmit stimulation as well as record neurological behavior through means such as electronics, optics and fluid.

According to the MIT experts, thanks to the new technology, it is possible to combine multiple communication channels into a single cable, with a width 200 times thinner than before. This allows them to accurately map nerve activity to measure reactions from different areas of the brain or from the spinal cord, thereby leading to effective treatment of neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's.