Research Proves Nerve Signals Are Sound Pulses Not Electric Currents

Although scientists understand much about this process, there have been many debates between two different models of how these nerve signals work. According to a revolutionary new study published in the journal Physical Review X, the latest theory is most likely correct. Originally, these nerve impulses were thought to be sent from opposite ends of a nerve and were then destroyed upon collision. Researchers have found that nerve impulses actually pass through each other, which supports the idea that they are sound pulses.

Scientists Hodgkin and Huxley proposed the first model of nerve signals in 1952. They believed nerve signals functioned as an electric current along a nerve and were created by a flow of ions. Layers of sodium and potassium ions produced this mechanism on both sides of the nerve membrane and switched positions when stimulated. Both researchers claimed it was this change that produced the electric current. For many years, most scientists believed this theory and it was recorded in many textbooks. One of the main problems with this theory, however, was the fact that it still left some questions unanswered for the function of nerves.

Recently, scientists at the Niels Bohr Institute at the University of Copenhagen conducted studies that challenged the original theory. They explained that two electric pulses sent out of opposite sides of a nerve would have to be halted after colliding, according to the theory of ion mechanization. Experiments were conducted at the university using nerves from lobsters and earthworms. Their nerves were extracted and used to activate nerve fibres with electrodes on either end. After that, scientists measured the nerve signals.

Head of the study, Professor Thomas Heinberg noted that “our study showed that the signals passed through each other completely unhindered and unaltered. That’s how sound waves work. Both waves continue unimpeded. The nerve impulse can therefore be explained by the fact that the pulse is a mechanical wave in the form of a sound pulse.” According to the study, sound pulses pass through pathways where the membrane changes from a liquid to a solid form. It is then compressed, and it is this change that creates an electrical pulse. This proves the signal is caused by a mechanical force. 

Author

Gary Starkman Dr. Starkman, a top Neurologist in NYC, is the Medical Director and founder of New York Neurology Associates. He is Board Certified in Neurology with a subspecialty certification in Pain Medicine.