Random Knowledge by Aaron Silva

Silva, Aaron

Undergraduate Student

Biomedical Engineering

Integrative Nano-Bio Centers

2019-07-18

2020 submissions

The Center for Hybrid Nanostructures, Hamburg, Germany

Random Knowledge: A vast interconnected network purposed to continue the passage of information -- just like the green fluorescent protein used to label the neural cells. Cells are synaptically connected by the extension of axons to dendrites -- all randomly created with the purpose of one day being able to inform about and respond to complex signals. Neurons are the highway of information in biological systems. Information leaps from one neuron's axon to another neuron's dendrites to continue the passage of information. The release of neurotransmitters from neuron's axon encodes the message for these complex signals. The signal is propagated at incredible speeds throughout the network of connections, assuring that information is transmitted. However, all this information is random in the absence of sensory experiences. The refinement of the network can't occur, so signals are propagated without a destination. Additionally, if connections are lost, there is little chance for the regeneration of the connection. Information is lost to the abyss. My research tried to solve the problem of random and lost knowledge. By fabricating hybrid micro-structures for integrated micro-bio devices, we can build smart circuits that could replace lost connections all from a concoction of neural cells and media. Through the process of differentiating induced pluripotent stem cells to neural cells, we can fix the loss of information. We can create new neurons that are ready to continue the transfer of information. Then, through various microfabrication processes, we can create micro-structured devices that can create smart micro-bio devices. Our approach uses microtubes fabricated on a semiconductor substrate that guides the growth of axons in certain directions to create planned neural connections. One day these smart neural circuits can be the integration between biological specimen and electrical machinery to fix the problem of random and lost knowledge.

Jann Harberts, DAAD RISE Program

neuroscience
engineering
fluorescence

Capture Your Research

University of Iowa. Lichtenberger Engineering Library
University of Iowa. College of Engineering. NEXUS Program
Virgil M. Hancher Auditorium

Attribution-NonCommercial 2.0 (CC BY-NC 2.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/2.0/

Contact Kari Kozak in the Litchenberger Engineering Library at the University of Iowa: http://www.lib.uiowa.edu/eng/contact/

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