Human Neurons Navigate Doom in Innovative Experiment
- Cortical Labs connected approximately 200,000 human neurons to the video game Doom using electrical stimulation and software controls.
- The neurons can navigate and shoot in the game, though their performance is currently at a beginner level.
- The experiment is part of a long tradition of running Doom on unusual platforms, including gut bacteria and pregnancy tests.
- Researchers used artificial intelligence to refine how game information was encoded into electrical signals sent to the neurons.
Cortical Labs has taken the “Can it run Doom?” challenge to new heights by integrating human brain cells with the classic video game. This innovative approach uses living neurons that learn through feedback signals, demonstrating adaptability despite lacking true understanding of the game.
This experiment highlights both the potential and limitations of using biological systems for computational tasks, showcasing neural adaptability outside traditional cognitive structures. (Source)