UMass Amherst Develops Artificial Neurons Using Bacterial Nanowires

In October 2025, engineers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst announced the development of artificial neurons that closely replicate the electrical functions of biological neurons. These artificial neurons are constructed using protein nanowires synthesized from the bacterium Geobacter sulfurreducens, known for its electricity-generating capabilities. Operating at approximately 0.1 volts—comparable to natural neurons—these artificial neurons can communicate directly with living cells without the need for power-intensive amplifiers. This advancement holds potential for developing bio-inspired computers and wearable electronics that are more energy-efficient and capable of interfacing seamlessly with biological systems.

The artificial neurons leverage protein nanowires derived from Geobacter sulfurreducens, a bacterium recognized for its ability to produce electricity. These nanowires facilitate the creation of circuits that mimic the behavior of biological neurons. Unlike traditional artificial neurons that require higher voltages and consume more power, these bio-inspired neurons operate at approximately 0.1 volts, aligning with the voltage levels of natural neurons. This low-voltage operation enables direct communication with living cells without the need for amplifiers, thereby enhancing energy efficiency and reducing circuit complexity.

The development of these artificial neurons opens avenues for various applications:

• Bio-Inspired Computing: Designing computers that emulate the brain's energy-efficient data processing capabilities.

• Wearable Electronics: Creating devices that can interface directly with the human body, eliminating the need for power-hungry amplifiers.

• Medical Sensors: Developing sensors powered by biological processes, such as sweat, to monitor health metrics.

Prior to this development, artificial neurons required higher voltages and consumed more power, necessitating amplifiers to communicate with biological systems. The use of protein nanowires from Geobacter sulfurreducens represents a significant advancement in creating energy-efficient, biocompatible electronic components.

The creation of artificial neurons that can directly communicate with living cells has profound implications:

• Healthcare: Potential for advanced prosthetics and implants that integrate seamlessly with the nervous system.

• Energy Efficiency: Development of low-power electronic devices, reducing energy consumption and environmental impact.

• Biocompatibility: Use of biodegradable materials aligns with sustainable technology initiatives.

The development of artificial neurons using protein nanowires from Geobacter sulfurreducens marks a significant milestone in bioelectronics. This innovation paves the way for energy-efficient, biocompatible devices capable of direct communication with living cells, with far-reaching implications across computing, healthcare, and sustainable technology.