6. Brain – computer Interfaces

In addition, direct brain implants have helped restore partial vision to people who have lost their sight.

Recent research has focused on the possibility of using brain- computer interfaces to connect different brains together directly. Researchers at Duke University last year reported successfully connecting the brains of two mice over the Internet (into what was termed a “brain net”) where mice in different countries were able to cooperate to perform simple tasks to generate a reward.

Also in 2013, scientists at Harvard University reported that they were able to establish a functional link between the brains of a rat and a human with a non-invasive, computer-to-brain interface. Other research projects have focused on manipulating or directly implanting memories from a computer into the brain.

In mid-2013, MIT researchers reported having successfully implanted a false memory into the brain of a mouse. In humans, the ability to directly manipulate memories might have an application in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, while in the longer term, information may be uploaded into human brains in the manner of a computer file.

Of course, numerous ethical issues are also clearly raised by this rapidly advancing field.

Read More: Top 10 Emerging Technologies 2014

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