Comments on: Molecular ‘Light Switch’ Could Cure Epilsepsy & Parkison’s

By: Sean Hackbarth

Sean Hackbarth — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 21:23:42 +0000

I'm guessing it's nothing like the flashing red light from The Andromada Strain.

By: Michael

Michael — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 18:25:14 +0000

Could such a light be used in the video surveillance cameras now so ubiquitous in the UK? Is Big Brother that close? Hmm..., could this be considered an effective interrogation technique or torture?

Um, no. This technique is similar in principle to using implanted electrodes, it still requires putting something inside your brain (and in this case, your neural cells too). So unless you don't trust the person you are going to let open your skull, you have nothing new to worry about.

By: charles austin

charles austin — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 14:44:37 +0000

I share similar concerns to those expressed by legion said -- any tool or treatment this simple, yet this powerful, can be used for ill purposes just as easily as for good, although my fear is less about DARPA than many other more nefarious organizations. Could such a light be used in the video surveillance cameras now so ubiquitous in the UK? Is Big Brother that close? Hmm..., could this be considered an effective interrogation technique or torture?

By: legion

legion — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 14:12:22 +0000

Ugh. I suppose it's just the utter bastard in me, but the first thing I noticed is that they specify that they can turn cells on as well as off. I expect DARPA is going to be all over this...