（新春走基层）外籍科学家在杭州“解码”大脑

Core Insights - The research led by Mohamad Sawan focuses on developing advanced neural chips and biochips to address brain diseases like Alzheimer's and epilepsy, which currently lack effective drug interventions [3][4] - Sawan's team is working on a visual restoration system that bypasses the conventional pathway of "eyes-visual nerve-brain" by implanting chips directly into the brain's visual cortex, potentially providing a form of vision for the blind [4][5] - Sawan has been recognized for his contributions to international scientific cooperation, receiving the International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Award in 2024 [3] Research and Development - The team is developing neuromorphic chips that mimic the functioning of neurons, capable of recording and decoding neural signals while also enabling closed-loop control through electrical stimulation or drug delivery [3][4] - The research in neural signal recording precision and system integration is at the forefront globally, indicating a strong competitive position in the field of implantable and wearable smart medical devices [4] Academic Contributions - Sawan has been involved in collaborative research in brain science with various Chinese laboratories since 2005 and made a significant decision to join Westlake University full-time in 2018 [5] - The Advanced Neural Chip Center at Westlake University aims to cultivate talent, having trained 10 PhD graduates by the end of 2025, who are expected to continue in research or academia [5][6] Future Outlook - Sawan expresses confidence in the potential of Westlake University to become a world leader in the field of neural chips, with a focus on translating innovative research into clinically applicable implantable devices [6]