Exogenous neurogenesis! Wow, this is super interesting. I did not consider exogenous methods in my future Neurobionics fiction scenario where targeted neuroplasticity results in certain types of humans more apt for certain purposes than others, combined with BMI tech to solve the "space" issue, in my fiction that is. As you say, how much can you cram in that head?
"These new neurons would need to be derived from multipotent cells and reincorporated into the brain as a cell-based therapy where they would finally integrate within the native neural circuitry."
Integration is the hardest part? Rejection rates, infection, tissue deterioration, precision? I can't begin to wonder about long-term effects, either. Regardless, it's going to happen. Isn't it?
I'm glad you found the article interesting! I was hoping it wouldn't be too dense for readers given the amount of information it contains.
I agree that integration is likely the most challenging aspect. There are already numerous protocols for creating cortical organoids in lab settings, particularly those with human origins. These animal studies, especially those involving integration, are currently focused on injury models. It would indeed be fascinating to see what happens in terms of enhancement! It's impressive that these organoids can integrate to perform both sending and receiving signals. The fact that these are human brain organoids in mice presents a sort of chimera scenario, which is intriguing!
I also concur with some of the other challenges you've mentioned. Science fiction, like your writing on neurobionics, plays a crucial role in crafting visions of the future that inspire both scientists and the general public. It often seems that fiction precedes reality.
It's quite dense but fascinating. I am no scientist, so forgive my simplistic approach to understanding the subject matter, which means I am always looking for scientists to keep me on my toes and call me out on nonsensical things, speculative fiction is better when grounded in truth. This is why I am no big fan of "antigravity" devices that let stuff float, hence I opted for quantum levitation and projected where that would be in the future.
Same with cloning, cell rejuvenation, longevity and BMI, integration of external consciousness (e.g. smartphones) with internal consciousness: Neurobionics. Military applications aside (DARPA TNT), the medical implications are endless. Controlling devices with thoughts, what's next? Encrypted "peer-to-peer" chat via thoughts aka telepathy through NFC or Long Distance? Sounds like Science Fiction? Fun to speculate!
You're absolutely right, Alex. Staying grounded in reality is essential, but it's equally challenging to predict which technologies will materialize. Reading science fiction often presents a linear progression of technology, which contrasts sharply with the rapid and radical changes we're experiencing due to exponential progress. Developments like the advent of general AI, the possibility of an intelligence explosion, and the emergence of humanoid robots could transform our world so quickly that our current understanding might soon become outdated. By 2050, with such rapid advancements, the world as we know it could be vastly different. It’s a fascinating time to speculate, and indeed, all bets might be off by then.
Have we tried neurogenesis on animals yet? I'm really curious to see if there's any crossover or studies we could do before we try humans!
Exogenous neurogenesis! Wow, this is super interesting. I did not consider exogenous methods in my future Neurobionics fiction scenario where targeted neuroplasticity results in certain types of humans more apt for certain purposes than others, combined with BMI tech to solve the "space" issue, in my fiction that is. As you say, how much can you cram in that head?
"These new neurons would need to be derived from multipotent cells and reincorporated into the brain as a cell-based therapy where they would finally integrate within the native neural circuitry."
Integration is the hardest part? Rejection rates, infection, tissue deterioration, precision? I can't begin to wonder about long-term effects, either. Regardless, it's going to happen. Isn't it?
I'm glad you found the article interesting! I was hoping it wouldn't be too dense for readers given the amount of information it contains.
I agree that integration is likely the most challenging aspect. There are already numerous protocols for creating cortical organoids in lab settings, particularly those with human origins. These animal studies, especially those involving integration, are currently focused on injury models. It would indeed be fascinating to see what happens in terms of enhancement! It's impressive that these organoids can integrate to perform both sending and receiving signals. The fact that these are human brain organoids in mice presents a sort of chimera scenario, which is intriguing!
I also concur with some of the other challenges you've mentioned. Science fiction, like your writing on neurobionics, plays a crucial role in crafting visions of the future that inspire both scientists and the general public. It often seems that fiction precedes reality.
It's quite dense but fascinating. I am no scientist, so forgive my simplistic approach to understanding the subject matter, which means I am always looking for scientists to keep me on my toes and call me out on nonsensical things, speculative fiction is better when grounded in truth. This is why I am no big fan of "antigravity" devices that let stuff float, hence I opted for quantum levitation and projected where that would be in the future.
Same with cloning, cell rejuvenation, longevity and BMI, integration of external consciousness (e.g. smartphones) with internal consciousness: Neurobionics. Military applications aside (DARPA TNT), the medical implications are endless. Controlling devices with thoughts, what's next? Encrypted "peer-to-peer" chat via thoughts aka telepathy through NFC or Long Distance? Sounds like Science Fiction? Fun to speculate!
You're absolutely right, Alex. Staying grounded in reality is essential, but it's equally challenging to predict which technologies will materialize. Reading science fiction often presents a linear progression of technology, which contrasts sharply with the rapid and radical changes we're experiencing due to exponential progress. Developments like the advent of general AI, the possibility of an intelligence explosion, and the emergence of humanoid robots could transform our world so quickly that our current understanding might soon become outdated. By 2050, with such rapid advancements, the world as we know it could be vastly different. It’s a fascinating time to speculate, and indeed, all bets might be off by then.
Super comprehensive, David. Saving this for a proper read at the weekend 🙏
It's a dense one. I was sure to give an audio option lol. I look forward to your thoughts.