Neuronal computers Original Research Article

Novel computation research is currently moving in a variety of directions, with often competing theories vying for recognition. In particular, DNA-based computing and quantum computing have entered into the public lexicon, although practical implementation is still some way off. One idea that is currently receiving less public interest, although possibly simpler to implement and with likely benefits in processing speed and memory capacity, is that of biological neural computing. Here, systems of limit cycle oscillators, which function in a similar manner to biological neurones are used to perform computation. Practical implementation could take the form of in vitro neural cultures or systems of oscillators etched into traditional semiconductor chips.