奇速英语

世界首个人类脑细胞计算机诞生

Imagine a computer that combines human brain cells with advanced technology. Meet the CL1 — a groundbreaking invention by Australian company Cortical Labs.
This “biological computer” uses lab-grown brain nerve cells placed on a silicon (硅) chip to process information, working in ways similar to a living brain. These cells form networks that respond to electrical signals, allowing the system to learn and adapt. Artificial intelligence (AI) software analyzes the neurons’ (神经元) activity, helping the system solve problems faster than traditional AI. Cortical Labs believes this approach could improve tasks like decision-making in unpredictable situations — something current AI struggles with.
In 2022, Cortical Labs made headlines by creating a lab-dish computer capable of learning and then mastering the game of Pong in just about five minutes. However, the technology had limited practical application within the laboratory environment. To make the technology practical, the company developed the CL1. CL1 comes in a life-support container that regulates a variety of elements, such as temperature and gas exchange. Priced at $35,000, the CL1 is set to launch commercially later this year.
Cortical Labs claim this technology could fundamentally transform the study of consciousness and potentially remove the need to rely on animal testing and imperfect mathematical models to study diseases and medicines. Although its price can be prohibitive to small labs and research teams, Cortical Labs is currently working on a significantly more affordable cloud-based system that can be accessed from anywhere in the world.
The CL1 represents a bold (大胆的) step toward blending biology with machines. However, using human neurons in computing raises concerns. Could such systems develop consciousness? Cortical Labs assures the public that CL1’s neurons are lab-grown and lack awareness. While expensive and controversial, it opens doors to faster, more flexible AI systems. As science advances, society will need to balance innovation with responsibility — a challenge as complex as the technology itself.