A new method straight out of a science fiction film could allow humans to control genes with their minds.
The new gene regulation technique allows thought-specific brain waves to control the conversion of genes into proteins, ETH Zurich reported.
"For the first time, we have been able to tap into human brainwaves, transfer them wirelessly to a gene network and regulate the expression of a gene depending on the type of thought. Being able to control gene expression via the power of thought is a dream that we've been chasing for over a decade," said Professor Martin Fussenegger.
The system was inspired by the game "Mindflex," in which the player wears a special headset with a sensor on the forehead that records brainwaves. The registered electroencephalogram (EEG) is then converted into a playing environment. Through this method players are able to guide a small ball through an obstacle course.
This new system also employs a headset that records brain waves and transmits the information to controller that turns into a field generator that creates an electromagnetic field, supplying the implant with an induction current. An LED lamp attached to the device illuminates the a culture chamber containing genetically modified cells. Once these cells are illuminated they begin to produce the desired protein. The light shines on a modified light-sensitive protein and triggers an "artificial signal cascade" that results in the production of SEAP.
The implant was first tested in cell cultures and mice and was controlled by the minds of different subjects. The tests were conducted using SEAP, which is a model protein that diffuses from the culture chamber of the implant in the mouse's bloodstream. They found when their subjects were relaxed the mice exhibited very high SEAP levels. For biofeedback the test subjects noticed LED light from the implant and were able to consciously switch the light on and off.
"Controlling genes in this way is completely new and is unique in its simplicity," Fussenegger said.
The researchers hop the implant could one day be used to treat conditions such as neurological diseases.The findings were published in a recent edition of the journal Nature Communications
