In the future, data centers may be based not only on silicon chips, but also on human brain cells i.e. neurons. It sounds like science fiction, but research in this direction has intensified. Australia’s Cortical Labs is developing such technology in which biological data centers will be created by connecting human neurons to computer systems. Its purpose is not to completely replace traditional computing, but to increase its capacity.
Cortical Labs’ CL-1 system is a hybrid device consisting of approximately 2 lakh lab-grown neurons grown on a silicon chip. These neurons process information through electrical signals, similar to how the human brain learns and remembers.
A special life support system has been designed to keep these neurons active and alive. In this, nutrients, temperature control and other biological requirements are taken care of. Apart from Melbourne, the company plans to establish such biological data centers in Singapore also.
In today’s era, Artificial Intelligence i.e. AI is developing rapidly. Training and running large AI models requires huge data centers, excessive electricity and water. This is increasing concerns about energy consumption and environmental impact.
In contrast, the human brain can perform tasks such as complex decision making, pattern recognition and learning with only about 20 watts of energy. This is why scientists are considering neuron-based computing as the energy-efficient technology of the future.
Will biological systems be able to replace silicon chips?
At present, biological data centers are in their initial stages. Their capacity is still limited as per industry standards. Cortical Labs’ CL-1 system is currently a bench-scale device, with deployment limited to a limited number of units.
In comparison, the data centers of tech giants like Amazon, Microsoft and Google operate on thousands of servers. There is no concrete evidence yet that biological systems can perform AI training or data processing as fast as GPUs and CPUs.
Ethical and legal challenges
Ethical questions are also being raised regarding the use of human neurons. Although the existing systems are far away from consciousness or human thinking, but with the development of technology, it is considered necessary to create clear rules and guidelines. Experts say regulation on a global level will be necessary for the safe and responsible use of biological computing.
