Singapore launches biological data center prototype using human neurons

Researchers and companies have launched a prototype biological data center in Singapore that utilizes living human neurons to process information. The project is a collaboration between the National University of Singapore (NUS), data center operator DayOne, and the Australian startup Cortical Labs.

The system consists of a server rack containing 20 CL1 units, which together house approximately 16 million human neurons grown from stem cells. This “wetware” technology interfaces biological cells with digital hardware via microelectrode arrays, allowing for real-time electrical signal exchange between the neurons and silicon circuits.

A primary driver for this research is the rising energy demand of traditional data centers, particularly those supporting artificial intelligence. While a typical high-density AI server rack can exceed 100 kilowatts, a fully equipped CL1 rack consumes between 800 and 1,000 watts. However, the system requires additional energy to maintain the biological environment, including temperature control, gas mixing, and filtration. The neurons can be maintained for up to six months.