Just when you thought technology couldn’t get any more amazing, South Korea recently created the world’s first remote mind control device.
However, there is no need to worry about such a device manipulating others. One of the researchers in the study said it uses already existing technology.
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The South Korean researchers only added specialized nanomaterials that would help tune brain cells with specific magnetic fields. Additionally, they only tested it on mice.
How does the mind control device work?
Researchers from South Korea’s Institute for Basic Science (IBS) developed hardware that can manipulate the brain from afar using magnetic fields.
They used magneto-mechanical genetics (MMG) to create their Nano-Magnetogenetic Interface for NeuroDynamics (Nano-MIND).
They tested whether their technology could encourage specific behaviors in laboratory mice. Specifically, they tested whether it can induce maternal instincts and reduce appetite.
The first test involved female rats, which approached their pups or offspring 16 seconds faster than average. Moreover, the researchers said they “quickly retrieved all three pups in all the trials.”
The second test caused lab mice to eat more with the mind control device. As a result, their body weight increased by 7.5 grams, which constitutes an 18% weight gain.
The researchers tested if they could make the rats do the opposite with the MMG signal. Consequently, the mice lost 4.3 grams on average, or 10% of their weight.
The mind control device might make one think it is used in science fiction. However, the Daily Mail reported the head researcher has more realistic goals.
Dr. Cheon Jinwoo said Nano-MIND will help pinpoint which parts of the brain are responsible for specific moods and behaviors.
Dr. Cheon and his team posted their findings on Nature with the title, “A magneto-mechanical genetics toolbox for in vivo neuromodulation.”
Dr. Felix Leroy, a senior scientist at Spain’s Instituto de Neurociencias, wrote an op-ed that accompanied the study. It warned that the technology needs more study before it enters human testing.