Cortical Labs, an Australia-based tech company, has recently introduced the CL1, a ‘biological’ computer powered by living human neurons. Known as the ‘Synthetic Biological Intelligence’, this innovative device allows researchers to explore how real neurons process information, offering a potentially more human-relevant alternative to animal testing.
Unveiled at the latest MWC 2025 event in Barcelona, the CL1 is designed to sustain neurons for up to six months using an internal life support system, as stated on Cortical Labs’ official website. These neurons are nurtured in a nutrient-rich solution and spread across a silicon chip, which communicates electrical impulses with the neural structure. This arrangement forms a closed-loop system where the neurons engage with a simulated digital environment, driven by Cortical Labs’ Biological Intelligence Operating System (biOS).
The standout feature of the CL1 is its capability to deploy code directly to the neurons, allowing researchers to program and observe them in real time. Unlike conventional AI models that imitate brain functions, the CL1 utilizes self-programming neurons that have evolved over four billion years. This unique approach enables scientists to delve into synthetic biology and intelligence, examining how neurons adapt, learn, and react to stimuli.
Cortical Labs highlights that the CL1 is self-contained, housing all necessary systems within the device and requiring no external computing power. Additionally, it offers expandability with USB ports and other connections for attaching cameras, actuators, and other devices for diverse experiments. A user-friendly touchscreen interface facilitates monitoring system status, viewing live data, and running pre-packaged assays.
The CL1’s potential to transform medical research is particularly exciting. By observing real-time neuron function, researchers can gain valuable insights into brain diseases, cognitive processes, and the impacts of new drugs. This could lead to more efficient drug development and a deeper understanding of neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease.
In addressing ethical concerns in research, Cortical Labs emphasizes the use of human neurons over animal models in the CL1 for more relevant data and reduced reliance on animal testing. The energy-efficient design of the device also minimizes resource consumption, making it a sustainable option for laboratories.
According to New Atlas, Cortical plans to launch the commercial version of the CL1 in the latter half of 2025, with individual units priced at approximately $35,000. The company is also working on a neural network server stack containing 30 CL1 units accessible through a cloud-based platform. This setup will enable remote experimentation, opening up new avenues for drug discovery, disease modeling, and robotics.
The CL1 signifies a significant advancement in merging biology and technology. Cortical Labs describes it as “programmable organic neural networks, born on a silicon chip and living inside a digital world.” For researchers, this represents a powerful tool to unravel the mysteries of the brain. For the broader community, it offers a captivating glimpse into the future of science – where living cells and silicon chips collaborate to tackle humanity’s greatest challenges.