Using electrical stimulation of the brain, researchers from the United States were able to significantly increase the cognitive capabilities of subjects (so far only macaques). The project was funded by the defense research agency DARPA.
Scientists from different countries have repeatedly presented their ideas to the world on how to enhance human cognitive capabilities, in particular understanding, computation and learning. Now very good results have shown a group of specialists representing the Canadian McGill University and the research organization HRL Laboratories. The project was funded by the defense research agency DARPA, which is developing fundamentally new military technologies for the US Army. The conclusions of the scientists were presented on the EurekAlert website!
Experts applied transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). This technology is not new in the literal sense of the word: its effect on the brain has been actively studied for several decades. Previously, it has already found its use in counteracting the effects of stroke, the treatment of depression and chronic pain. Now scientists have found additional evidence that tDCS may be beneficial to healthy people, in part by elucidating the mechanism of how exactly transcranial DC stimulation affects the brain.
The concept itself is not overly complicated. The electrodes can be attached to the head without surgery, which increases the availability of the technology and makes it possible to use it in almost any setting. Direct current acts on the prefrontal cortex of the cerebral hemispheres. The latter is responsible for various functions, in particular decision-making, memory and attention. When using the method, the connection between different areas of the brain is strengthened, which contributes to the acceleration of learning.
The results of the tests carried out now have been very encouraging. The experiment involved macaques, which, using visual cues, had to determine the location of food. If before the application of stimulation, animals needed 22 attempts to find food, then after training only 12.
Ahead are new tests that scientists intend to conduct on humans. Once the method is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the technology can be expected to be applied to humans. The military could start using it by 2022. Experts believe that the technology can also find its application in the civilian market.
Ilya Vedmedenko
