Naked Science Forum

Non Life Sciences => Technology => Topic started by: ralphyades on 08/02/2008 15:44:15

Title: putting a chip to control our hearts
Post by: ralphyades on 08/02/2008 15:44:15

Is it possible for technologists to insert chips on our hearts to control our thoughts and emotions?

Title: putting a chip to control our hearts
Post by: BenV on 08/02/2008 16:01:05

It may be possible to put chips on our hearts to control our heart rate, but I doubt they could do much about thoughts and emotions from a heart-bound chip.

You could simulate an adrenalin rush by rapidly increasing the heart rate - this could lead to panic, fear etc.  But more subtle mood changes would require interfering with the brain, both chemically and electrically, which is a bit more complicated.

Title: putting a chip to control our hearts
Post by: DoctorBeaver on 08/02/2008 16:49:46

Isn't that the wrong way round? I thought adrenalin caused an increase in heart rate not vice versa.

Title: putting a chip to control our hearts
Post by: BenV on 08/02/2008 17:29:08

Sorry, simulate an adrenalin rush by increasing the heart rate, not stimulate an adrenalin rush.

Title: putting a chip to control our hearts
Post by: DoctorBeaver on 08/02/2008 17:45:37

I'm still not convinced. Adrenalin does more than just increase the heart rate. It can also cause a temporary override of muscular inhibition which would allow increased speed when running, greater strength, and even make the person braver. Simply increasing the heart rate would not cause those other effects.