Genetic telepathy
In Switzerland, they learned to control genes with the power of thought
Copper news based on the materials of ETH Zurich: Controlling genes with your thoughts
Biotechnologists from the Higher Technical School in Zurich have developed an innovative way to regulate genes, allowing them to control their expression using brain waves. The research data is published in the journal Nature Communications (Folcher et al., Mind-controlled transgene expression by a wireless-powered optogenetic designer cell implant).
"For the first time, we recorded the waves that the brain produces during certain thought processes, transmitted them wirelessly to genes and regulated gene expression with the power of thought," said the main author of the study, Professor Martin Fussenegger (Martin Fussenegger).
The source of inspiration for scientists was the game "Mindflex": a sensor is attached to the forehead of the player that captures electromagnetic waves emitted by the brain (an analogue of an electroencephalogram, EEG). The wave frequencies control the air flows of the game "fan", which keeps the foam ball from falling and guides it through the obstacle course. Thus, after a little training, a person can control the ball with the power of thought.
The scientists also used an electroencephalograph that records electromagnetic brain waves that are transmitted via Bluetooth to a controller that controls the excitation generator. This device creates an electromagnetic field that provides the implant with an induction current. After that, the LED lamp lights up in the latter. Radiating in the near infrared range, it illuminates the culture chamber, which contains genetically modified cells. Reacting to light, they begin to produce the SEAP protein.
The implant was also tested on mice: the volunteers were divided into three groups, depending on the type of activity. In a relaxed state (when meditating with closed eyes), protein was produced in large quantities (that is, gene expression was high), when concentrating on the game "Minecraft" – at an average level, and when people watched the light bulb, consciously turning it on and off, the level of SEAP protein in the blood of mice constantly changed.
According to the researchers, in the future this effective and safe technology will be useful in the treatment of neurological diseases, for example, epilepsy, chronic headaches and pain in the spine. The implant will register the wavelengths characteristic of these disorders and respond to them by triggering the genes responsible for the production of the necessary substances.
Portal "Eternal youth" http://vechnayamolodost.ru12.11.2014