Singapore has made a significant leap in technology with the introduction of a biological data center that harnesses live human brain cells, specifically neurons. Unlike traditional data centers that rely on silicon chips, this innovative facility is designed to process information using neurons cultivated from stem cells, enabling advanced artificial intelligence capabilities.
Collaboration and Development
This initiative is a collaborative effort between the National University of Singapore (NUS) and local data center partner DayOne, along with Australian biological computing startup Cortical Labs. The prototype is housed within the NUS Life Sciences Institute and represents the first of its kind in Singapore and outside of Australia.
How the Biological Data Center Works
Rather than using intact human brains, the data center employs brain cells that have been grown in laboratory settings and integrated into a specialized computing system. Specifically, the facility operates with 20 units of the CL1 device developed by Cortical Labs. Each CL1 unit contains human brain cells derived from stem cells and connects these living neurons to electronic systems.
Microelectrode Array Technology
Each brain cell within the CL1 units is connected to a computer using a method known as Microelectrode Array (MEA). This technology allows computers to send electrical stimuli to the neurons, while simultaneously recording the electrical activity generated by them. The resulting activity and responses are integral to the computational processes carried out by this innovative data center.
Wetware in Computing
NUS has described this technology as an example of utilizing “wetware” in computation. Wetware refers to the incorporation of living biological components within computing systems, complementing the conventional hardware and software frameworks. In this context, hardware represents the physical components, while software encompasses the applications and programs that facilitate various functions.
The establishment of this biological data center marks a notable advancement in the field of computing and artificial intelligence, showcasing the potential of integrating biological elements into technology. As research and development in this area continue to progress, it could lead to groundbreaking applications and further innovations in AI.
Source: https://tekno.kompas.com/read/2026/08/22/19030017/singapura-buka-data-center-ai-pertama-pakai-sel-otak-manusia
