Cortical Labs, in collaboration with bit.bio, is developing CL1, a biological computer that uses lab-grown human neurons to create 'synthetic biological intelligence'. The CL1 platform integrates human neurons with a silicon chip, enabling information processing through electrical feedback with sub-millisecond latency. The neurons, derived from reprogrammed skin or blood cells, are maintained for up to six months by a built-in life support system.
CL1 is designed for neuroscience, biotechnology research, disease modelling, and drug development. The system leverages the adaptive and self-repairing properties of living cells to create resilient computing platforms. Cortical Labs also intends to offer server racks of CL1 units connected to the cloud, allowing users to run simulation programs on individual brains housed within each unit.
The CL1 biocomputer is based on human brain cells placed on a silicon chip. The company's long-term goal is to create 'bioengineered intelligence' that could one day surpass both natural neural networks and silicon machines in adaptability and efficiency. The first 115 CL1s are slated to ship this summer, priced at $35,000 per unit, with discounts available for rack-mount orders.
