Scientists Create Wireless Light Device That Teaches the Brain New Signals
Scientists at Northwestern University have developed a soft wireless implant that sends information straight into the brain using tiny flashes of light. The device teaches the brain to read these flashes as meaningful signals. As a result, the brain learns entirely new forms of artificial input.The technology avoids traditional senses. Instead, it activates neurons directly. This gives researchers a powerful way to explore how the brain builds new experiences.
How the Light Device Works
The device sits under the scalp and rests on the skull. It is thin, flexible, and small. In addition, it can project programmed light patterns through the bone. These patterns reach large areas of the cortex and trigger specific neurons.During early tests, the team activated genetically light-responsive neurons in mice. The animals quickly learned that certain light patterns represented clues. They used these clues to make decisions and complete tasks. Therefore, the brain treated the artificial signals as real information.
Why This Breakthrough Matters
Researchers believe this method could support new sensory tools. For example, it might provide feedback for prosthetic limbs, improve assistive devices for hearing or vision, or reduce pain without medication. It may also help people recover after strokes or injuries.The study builds on earlier optogenetics work. Past devices used a single micro-LED. The new version uses up to 64 micro-LEDs, allowing richer and more flexible patterns. This makes the stimulation closer to natural brain activity.
Training the Brain To Decode Light
In one test, mice learned to associate a light pattern with a reward. They recognized the correct pattern among many options and responded through behavior. As a result, the experiment confirmed that the brain can learn artificial codes.Researchers plan to expand the system with more LEDs and deeper-reaching light. They aim to explore how many patterns the brain can learn.
