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Bixel is a simple self-assembly kit that allows users to build and code their own games powered by DNA. It consists of an 8×8 pixel display, programmed using jellyfish DNA to express Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) – the material that makes jellyfish glow. The display can be manipulated with a smartphone app to activate the fluorescent colours, create messages and play simple games. The team behind it say that it is the world’s first visual display for interacting with biological circuits. Cell-Free Technology were able to create Bixel after developing an innovative new technique that allows them to break open cells at large scale and extract their inner workings. It is safe, inexpensive, and does not involve the use of genetically modified organisms.
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Helene explained: “Our mission is to make biotechnology and synthetic biology more accessible to the public. Biotechnology is going to play an increasingly important role in our lives, and it’s crucial that the public understand it so that they can contribute meaningfully to debate about how it is used in the future. Interacting with biotechnology in this way is safe, exciting and inspirational and helps start this conversation.”
Read full, original post: Bio-computer powered by jellyfish DNA plays Tetris and other retro videogames
