Neurogenny

Neurogenny is a term used in speculative discussions at the intersection of neuroscience, synthetic biology, and information theory to describe a framework for encoding neural information into a genome-like data representation. In this context, neural activity patterns or brain-state vectors could be translated into a compact, sequence-like format that mirrors genomic encoding, with the aim of storing, transmitting, or interfacing neural information in a new medium. It is not a recognized technology with established methods, but rather a concept explored in thought experiments, theoretical papers, and science fiction.

Conceptually, proponents imagine combining neural signal processing, data encoding schemes, and principles from DNA data storage or programmable cellular systems. The idea emphasizes robust, fault-tolerant representations and could involve error-correcting codes, abstract mapping between neural states and symbolic data, and potential use of synthetic biology to implement bio-compatible storage or interfaces. In practice, no standardized protocol or demonstrable implementation exists, and the notion remains largely exploratory.

Applications discussed in speculative contexts include long-term archiving of neural data, novel brain-computer interfaces, or alternate channels for brain-to-machine communication. Critics highlight substantial scientific and ethical barriers, including feasibility, interpretability of encoded neural information, biosafety, privacy, and potential dual-use risks. As a concept, neurogenny serves more as a thought-provoking lens on future interfaces between biology and information than as an immediate, realizable technology.