Bionics –
a word formed from biology and electronics – has become a quickly expanding
research field, exploring ways and materials to bridge the interface between
electronics and biology
Basically, there are three levels of biocommunications
where electronics and biology could interface: molecular, cellular and
skeletal. For any implanted bionic material it is the initial interactions at
the biomolecular level that will determine longer
term performance. While bionics is often associated with skeletal level
enhancements, electronic communication with living cells is of interest with a
view to improving the results of tissue engineering or the performance of
implants such as bionic ears or eyes.
Researchers have been trying for more than 20 years to
interface neurons and silicon devices. They are experimenting with individual
neurons from different parts of the brain by cultivating them and trying to
establish ex vivo neural networks. The goal is to stimulate neurons with
electric signals and observe how the live network reacts and modifies itself.
These studies could result in valuable findings that improve our understanding
of how a neural network modifies its structure during the learning phase and
the rules that govern the way synapses and neurites
grow. Analysis of the electro-physiological activity of neurons could one day
enable scientists to develop artificial prostheses for bypassing injured zones
and restore brain functionality, or to realize neuro-diagnostic
tools for monitoring the reaction of biological neurons to selected chemical
species or newly developed drugs.
http://www.cens.de/press/press-review/press-review/article/71/scientists-i.html