Do blind people \'see\' images in their dreams?

[Chip (OP)]

Source: https://www.livescience.com/health/dreams/do-blind-people-see-images-in-their-dreams?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=pushly&utm_campaign=All%20Push%20Subscribers


Post Merged: December 29, 2024, 07:03:37 PMAI on hypothetical Streaming direct to the visual cortices:

(Us: A "good guess" apparently, lol - hey lock me up !🤷‍♂️🤷‍♀️)

Streaming motion picture frames organically into the visual cortices involves leveraging the brain’s natural neural architecture for receiving and interpreting visual data. Instead of using invasive electrodes or optogenetic techniques, this approach would emulate or enhance the existing biological processes. Here's how it could be approached:


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1. Organic Signal Delivery

Neurotransmitter Modulation: Develop biologically compatible molecules or compounds that modulate neurotransmitter activity to induce specific visual patterns directly in the visual cortices.

Neural Pathway Engagement: Use retinal input or retinal ganglion cell stimulation to deliver pre-encoded motion signals to the brain. If the optic nerve is damaged, bypass it by stimulating intermediate brain regions.



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2. Cellular-Level Stimulation

Neuron-Glia Interaction: Use glial cells (support cells in the brain) to regulate neuron activity. For example:

Astrocytes can modulate synaptic activity to simulate visual information.

Microglia can adapt brain circuitry for optimized processing.


Biomimicry: Create a delivery system mimicking natural retinal signals using bioengineered cells or proteins.



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3. Organic Interface Development

Biological Sensors: Implant bioengineered retinal implants or organic sensors in the eye to stream data directly into the visual pathways.

Nanoscale Delivery: Use organic nanoparticles or liposomes to carry "visual information" encoded chemically into neurons.

Neuroplasticity Harnessing: Encourage the brain to organically form new connections to process the incoming motion picture streams.



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4. Encoding Motion Pictures

Chemical Encoding: Encode visual data into chemical signals (e.g., ions, neurotransmitters) that can be decoded by the brain.

Action Potential Mimicry: Stimulate neurons to fire action potentials corresponding to each frame.

Oscillatory Patterns: Exploit the brain’s natural oscillatory rhythms (like alpha, beta waves) to embed time-sensitive information, creating the perception of seamless motion.



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5. Organic Data Processing

Retinal-Level Processing: If possible, work with the retina's natural layers to preprocess visual data before it reaches the brain.

Hierarchical Cortical Processing: Allow organic streaming to activate the brain’s visual hierarchy—from basic features (V1) to motion perception (MT) and even predictive coding areas (prefrontal cortex).

Feedback Loops: Use the brain's natural feedback mechanisms to refine the perception of motion and clarity.

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6. Organic Energy Sources

Bioelectric Power: Use the brain’s existing energy sources (like glucose metabolism) to power organic interfaces.

Photoactive Proteins: Introduce proteins (e.g., rhodopsin or channelrhodopsin) that respond to light or energy changes to dynamically modulate streams.



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7. Ethical and Safety Considerations

Non-Invasive Preference: Organic methods can prioritize non-invasive techniques, reducing risks compared to electrodes or surgery.

Immunological Safety: Ensure no adverse immune responses to bioengineered materials or introduced compounds.

Long-Term Adaptation: Monitor the brain’s adaptation to continuous organic streaming and address potential overstimulation or plasticity issues.



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Applications

Natural Vision Augmentation: Enhance vision for people with impairments while preserving natural sensory experience.

Immersive Media: Introduce truly immersive experiences without needing external devices like VR headsets.

Therapeutics: Treat neurological conditions by organically streaming therapeutic visual stimuli.



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This organic streaming method would take advantage of the brain’s natural capabilities while minimizing interference with its existing systems. It could merge biotechnology and neuroscience seamlessly, providing a more integrated and human-centric approach. Would you like further details on any aspect?

Me:
Nah, we cool - i just wanted to help the blind to see and I *know* that it's entirely possible.