"Mind-controlled" gene expression

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a groundbreaking method for mind-controlled transgene expression using a wireless-powered optogenetic designer cell implant. This system utilizes an electroencephalography (EEG)-based brain-computer interface (BCI) to interpret brain waves, which then program an inductively linked optogenetic implant. The implant features designer cells engineered for near-infrared (NIR) light-adjustable expression of the human glycoprotein secreted alkaline phosphatase (SEAP). The process involves a synthetic optogenetic signaling pathway that activates through NIR light, enabling users to control SEAP production based on their mental states such as concentration and meditation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electroencephalography (EEG) technology
  • Familiarity with brain-computer interface (BCI) systems
  • Knowledge of optogenetics and its applications
  • Basic principles of synthetic biology and gene expression
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanisms of optogenetic control in gene expression
  • Explore the applications of EEG in neurotechnology
  • Investigate the role of cyclic diguanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP) in cellular signaling
  • Learn about the development and use of wireless-powered implants in biomedical applications
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for neuroscientists, bioengineers, and researchers in synthetic biology, particularly those interested in the intersection of neurotechnology and gene therapy.

Pythagorean
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Mind-controlled transgene expression by a wireless-powered optogenetic designer cell implant.

Kind of a sensationalized title, since it's really just interpreting brain waves through a BCI, but neat anyway.

An electroencephalography (EEG)-based brain–computer interface (BCI) processing mental state-specific brain waves programs an inductively linked wireless-powered optogenetic implant containing designer cells engineered for near-infrared (NIR) light-adjustable expression of the human glycoprotein SEAP (secreted alkaline phosphatase). The synthetic optogenetic signalling pathway interfacing the BCI with target gene expression consists of an engineered NIR light-activated bacterial diguanylate cyclase (DGCL) producing the orthogonal second messenger cyclic diguanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP), which triggers the stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-dependent induction of synthetic interferon-β promoters. Humans generating different mental states (biofeedback control, concentration, meditation) can differentially control SEAP production of the designer cells in culture and of subcutaneous wireless-powered optogenetic implants in mice.

http://www.nature.com/ncomms/2014/141111/ncomms6392/full/ncomms6392.html
 
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