LCD projector used to control tiny organisms
Georgia Tech graduate student Jeffrey Stirman, School of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering associate professor Hang Lu, and graduate student Matthew Crane (left-right) (Image: Gary Meek)
Article Summary
Genetically engineered remote controlled animals ... what the? Using inexpensive and widely available technology combined with the latest techniques in optogenetics, researchers at Georgia Tech have created exactly that. Optogenetics is a mix of optical and genetic techniques that has allowed scientists to gain control over brain circuits in laboratory animals. Mary Shelly would be proud – or totally freaked out. But don't expect remote controlled poodles or parrots in your nearest pet store by Christmas, this might be a few years off.
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