Synthetic Biology meets Neuromorphic Computing: Towards a bio-inspired Olfactory Perception System

In this study, we explore how the combination of synthetic biology, neuroscience modeling, and neuromorphic electronic systems offers a new approach to creating an artificial system that mimics the natural sense of smell. We argue that a co-design approach offers significant advantages in replicating the complex dynamics of odor sensing and processing. We investigate a hybrid system of synthetic sensory neurons that provides three key features: a) receptor-gated ion channels, b) interface between synthetic biology and semiconductors and c) event-based encoding and computing based on spiking networks. This research seeks to develop a platform for ultra-sensitive, specific, and energy-efficient odor detection, with potential implications for environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, and security.

@article{max2025_2504.10053,
  title={ Synthetic Biology meets Neuromorphic Computing: Towards a bio-inspired Olfactory Perception System },
  author={ Kevin Max and Larissa Sames and Shimeng Ye and Jan Steinkühler and Federico Corradi },
  journal={arXiv preprint arXiv:2504.10053},
  year={ 2025 }
}