In a world first, an Australian company called Cortical Labs has created a new kind of computer—one that thinks using living human brain cells. It's called the CL1, and it blends real human neurons with computer hardware to form something called Synthetic Biological Intelligence (SBI). This breakthrough could change the way we think about artificial intelligence forever.
What Makes CL1 So Special?
Unlike traditional AI systems, which are based only on silicon chips and algorithms, the CL1 includes living human brain cells. These cells form networks that learn and adapt in real time—just like the human brain. That makes this computer smarter, faster, and more energy-efficient than anything we’ve seen so far.
And here's the kicker: it doesn't even need an external computer to function.
From Science Fiction to Reality
Cortical Labs has been working on this dream for nearly six years. Their big moment came when they taught a cluster of brain cells to play the video game Pong—just like teaching a baby to react to patterns. The cells would get rewarded when they did something right, and punished when they got it wrong. Over time, they learned.
This was the start of what they now call “Wetware”—the biological version of hardware and software. That early model, called DishBrain, was the first baby step. The CL1 is the next giant leap.
How Does It Work?
At the heart of CL1 is a small chip covered in brain cells that are kept alive using a life-support box. These cells sit on an electrode grid made of glass and metal. This setup allows the system to both send and receive signals—basically talking back and forth with the “brain” on the chip.
A key part of the system is the “perfusion circuit,” which keeps the cells healthy. It controls temperature, removes waste, and makes sure everything flows just right.
And while the hardware is pretty advanced, Cortical’s biggest strength might be in its software: users can connect to CL1 online from anywhere in the world, accessing it like a remote computer. This model is called Wetware-as-a-Service, or WaaS.
A New Tool for Science and Medicine
This living computer could change how scientists do everything from drug testing to brain research. It’s more accurate than testing on animals, and could help researchers understand complex diseases like epilepsy and Alzheimer’s much better.
Plus, the CL1 offers a way to build custom robotic intelligence and even personalized treatments. It’s not just a research tool—it could help create smarter machines and safer medications.
What's Next?
Cortical Labs is building server stacks—rows of CL1 units—to allow more people to access the technology through the cloud. Each unit is expected to cost around $35,000, far cheaper than current biotech systems. They plan to have several stacks running by the end of the year.
Their long-term goal? Build what they call the Minimal Viable Brain—a fully functional brain-like system made with as few types of cells as possible. It’s a challenge, but one that could unlock deeper understanding of how intelligence really works.
What About Ethics?
Of course, growing human brain cells in a box raises some big ethical questions. Cortical Labs says it's following all the right rules, including bioethics and health guidelines, depending on the country and purpose of the research.
But as with all powerful tech, there’s still a lot we don’t know—especially about where this could lead. Still, it’s an exciting start, and it’s opening up possibilities that once only existed in science fiction.
Source: https://corticallabs.com/
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