Dec 24 2010
University of Reading scientists have developed a robot, which is operated by rat brain cells. The cultured brain cells are linked to the control circuit. The live cells build new connections and control the robot.
Robot Controlled by Rat Brain Cells
This project was started two years back. The improved version of the robot can navigate freely and quickly on the floor in contrast to the previous model. Neurons of the cells learn to circumvent obstacles found in the robot’s path, showcasing enhanced functioning over time.
A group of rat brain cells remain alive only for three months. After this period a new group of cells have to be restored, resulting in different response patterns.
The scientists have presented a paper titled "Implications and consequences of robots with biological brains" for explaining ethical issues related with this project.
Source: http://www.reading.ac.uk