Neuroplatform (biocomputer)

2024: Biocomputer launch

In late May 2024, the Swiss biotech launched startup FinalSpark the world's first, biocomputer consisting of 16 human brain organoids. The system, called Neuroplatform, is said to consume "a million times less energy" compared to traditional digital chips.

The architecture of Neuroplatform is based on the concept of Wetware: it provides a combination of hardware and software elements, as well as biological components. Four multi-electrode matrices are involved, in which there are living structures - organoids, which are a three-dimensional cellular mass of brain tissues. Each matrix contains four organoids connected to eight electrodes for stimulation and recording of signals. Data is transmitted via digital-to-analog converters (Intan RHS 32 controller) with a sampling rate of 30 kHz and a resolution of 16 bits. To support the activity of cells, a microfluidic life support system is used. A specialized software stack allows researchers to enter data and then read and interpret the results of the bioprocessor.

FinalSpark

FinalSpark says its neuroplatform is capable of learning. At the same time, the system has the highest energy efficiency. For example, learning a large language model (LLM) like GPT-3 requires about 10 GVt·ch of energy - about 6,000 times more than the average resident Europe consumes in a year. The use of bioprocessors is said to significantly reduce energy consumption when working with AI, and therefore reduce the negative impact of computing on the environment.

Access to the biocomputer is provided to everyone. The cost for educational institutions is $500 per user. True, there is a limitation: the lifetime of organoids is about 100 days.^[1]

Notes