Researchers are exploring the potential of using lab-grown brain cells to create computers, hoping to overcome the limitations of current silicon-based technology. Brain tissue is efficient, combining memory and computation while using less energy than traditional AI systems. However, ethical concerns arise, particularly regarding the use of human neural tissue without explicit donor consent. Donors often contribute cells for medical research without knowing they might be used for biocomputing. To address this, researchers suggest a more detailed consent process, ensuring donors are aware of all potential uses of their cells. Biocomputers use human cortical neurons, which are more complex than those from other species, and are developed from pluripotent stem cells. These cells can form brain organoids, which mimic brain functions and could revolutionize computing.
QUESTION: How might the development of biocomputers change the way we think about the relationship between technology and human biology?
Researchers are building computers that run on brain organoids — but have neglected a major ethical issue
