Topic: DishBrain

In this study we explore network connectivity of in vitro neuronal systems of live biological cells within a real-time game environment of the game Pong. We use DishBrain - a system that embodies in vitro neural networks with in silico computation using a high-density multi-electrode array (MEA). We compare functional connectivity across resting-state sessions and gameplay sessions, during which the cells control a paddle able to hit a ball. The location of the paddle and ball are temporally and spatially encoded and presented to the neurons via electrical stimulation. We observe significant d

Advanced assemblies of hardware, software, and synthetic biology (wetware) have resulted in new methods to embody neural systems into simulated environments to elicit dynamic goal-directed activity (Kagan et al., 2023, Biotechnology Advances.). Evidence of learning from in vitro neurons was established in a simplified game of Pong through closed-loop real-time electrophysiological recordings and patterned stimulations via a system called DishBrain (Kagan et al., 2022. Neuron.). Analysis of dynamic activity changes within these networks revealed key correlates associated with the appearance of