Light-induced spiking in proteinoids yields Boolean gates

Abstract

This study analyzes light modulation of spiking in proteinoids, thermally condensed proteins exhibiting spike dynamics. We elucidate how light induces changes in proteinoids, modulating spike frequency. Results show proteinoids' spiking can be adjusted by light intensity and wavelength. Structural investigations demonstrate light triggers conformational changes influencing spiking kinetics. Spiking proteinoids can perform Boolean logic, generating programmable expressions in response to light input modifications. This reveals potential unconventional computing applications. Our comprehensive analyses establish a fundamental understanding of light's impact on proteinoids' structure and protrusion dynamics, facilitating optically programmed bio-logic gates. Outcomes will catalyze future research into light-modified proteinoids for information processing and unconventional computation. In summary, this study provides key insights into light modulation of proteinoids' spiking behaviour, enabling novel optically controlled bio-logic gate operations and motivating continued efforts to integrate photo-responsive proteinoids in bioinspired computational systems.