DNA-based artificial network

Many simpler forms of life on this planet, including some of our earliest ancestors, don't have proper brains. Instead they have networks of neurons that fire in response to stimuli, triggering reactions. Scientists from Caltech have actually figured out how to create such a primitive pre-brain using strands of DNA. Researchers, led by Lulu Qian, strung together DNA molecules to create bio-mechanical circuits. By sequencing the four bases of our genetic code in a particular way, they were able to program it to respond differently to various inputs. To prove their success the team quizzed the organic circuit, essentially playing 20 questions, feeding it clues to the identity of a particular scientist using more DNA strands. The artificial neural network nailed answer every time. Check out the PR and pair of videos that dig a little deeper into the experiment after the break.

Brain Exercises: Insight Into The Science Of The Real World

Brain Exercises: Insight Into The Science Of The Real World
Hosted by: Rebecca Brayton
We all know that to keep our bodies healthy we should exercise and feed it appropriate foods. Keeping our brains healthy uses the same principles of exercise and fuel. By constantly feeding our minds information and challenging ourselves with new facts, we can help keep our brains fit well into old age. Dr. Joe Schwarcz – better known simply as Dr. Joe – is dedicated to explaining science to the masses and helping to foster a public interest for his chosen field. And this bestselling author informs and entertains on a wild assortment of science-based topics in his book "Brain Fuel". In this video, WatchMojo.com speaks with Dr. Schwarcz to learn more about how an interest in scientific trivia can keep your brain engaged, energized and healthy.