Author:
Morales Pantoja Itzy E.,Smirnova Lena,Muotri Alysson R.,Wahlin Karl J.,Kahn Jeffrey,Boyd J. Lomax,Gracias David H.,Harris Timothy D.,Cohen-Karni Tzahi,Caffo Brian S.,Szalay Alexander S.,Han Fang,Zack Donald J.,Etienne-Cummings Ralph,Akwaboah Akwasi,Romero July Carolina,Alam El Din Dowlette-Mary,Plotkin Jesse D.,Paulhamus Barton L.,Johnson Erik C.,Gilbert Frederic,Curley J. Lowry,Cappiello Ben,Schwamborn Jens C.,Hill Eric J.,Roach Paul,Tornero Daniel,Krall Caroline,Parri Rheinallt,Sillé Fenna,Levchenko Andre,Jabbour Rabih E.,Kagan Brett J.,Berlinicke Cynthia A.,Huang Qi,Maertens Alexandra,Herrmann Kathrin,Tsaioun Katya,Dastgheyb Raha,Habela Christa Whelan,Vogelstein Joshua T.,Hartung Thomas
Abstract
The brain is arguably the most powerful computation system known. It is extremely efficient in processing large amounts of information and can discern signals from noise, adapt, and filter faulty information all while running on only 20 watts of power. The human brain's processing efficiency, progressive learning, and plasticity are unmatched by any computer system. Recent advances in stem cell technology have elevated the field of cell culture to higher levels of complexity, such as the development of three-dimensional (3D) brain organoids that recapitulate human brain functionality better than traditional monolayer cell systems. Organoid Intelligence (OI) aims to harness the innate biological capabilities of brain organoids for biocomputing and synthetic intelligence by interfacing them with computer technology. With the latest strides in stem cell technology, bioengineering, and machine learning, we can explore the ability of brain organoids to compute, and store given information (input), execute a task (output), and study how this affects the structural and functional connections in the organoids themselves. Furthermore, understanding how learning generates and changes patterns of connectivity in organoids can shed light on the early stages of cognition in the human brain. Investigating and understanding these concepts is an enormous, multidisciplinary endeavor that necessitates the engagement of both the scientific community and the public. Thus, on Feb 22–24 of 2022, the Johns Hopkins University held the first Organoid Intelligence Workshop to form an OI Community and to lay out the groundwork for the establishment of OI as a new scientific discipline. The potential of OI to revolutionize computing, neurological research, and drug development was discussed, along with a vision and roadmap for its development over the coming decade.