DART (DC-Actuated Regulation Technology)

2023: Product Announcement

In early June 2023, specialists from the Swiss Higher Technical School of Zurich (ETH Zurich) announced the development of an electrogenetic interface that makes it possible to control the activity of human genes through a special wearable device. The technology is called DART (DC-Activated Regulation Technology).

The solution provides a connection between biological and electronic systems, which was previously considered impossible. The new interface is controlled by a simple low-voltage DC source. At the same time, the system requires very little energy to control the expression of the target gene. For example, three standard AA batteries can provide sufficient power for more than five years of daily use.

DART Operation Diagram

The project participants explain that biological processes work according to a genetic program that changes during evolution. At the same time, digital systems are controlled by software, and their physical part functions due to the movement of electrons. The proposed interface consists of genetic components that make human cells sensitive to electrical stimulation. The point is that gadgets will be able to program health on DNA code.

The researchers used remote insulin expression control technology in mice with type 1 diabetes to test the concept. Using acupuncture needle electrodes to stimulate artificial cells implanted under the skin, they found that just 4.5 VDC for 10 seconds each day caused enough insulin to be produced to lower blood sugar peaks after eating and return glucose levels to normal. In the future, the technology can lead to the emergence of fundamentally new methods of therapy for severe diseases.^[1]

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