Abstract
We present here biophysical models to gain deeper insights into how an acoustic stimulus might influence or modulate neuronal activity. There is clear evidence that neural activity is not only associated with electrical and chemical changes but that an electro-mechanical coupling is also involved. Currently, there is no theory that unifies the electrical, chemical, and mechanical aspects of neuronal activity. Here, we discuss biophysical models and hypotheses that can explain some of the mechanical aspects associated with neuronal activity: the soliton model, the neuronal intramembrane cavitation excitation model, and the flexoelectricity hypothesis. We analyze these models and discuss their implications on stimulation and modulation of neuronal activity by ultrasound.
Highlights
Neuromodulation methods, such as a deep brain stimulation, transcranial direct current stimulation, and transcranial magnetic stimulation, have attracted widespread attention due to their therapeutic effects in the treatment of neurological and psychiatric diseases [1]
For an ultrasound pulse of Discussion In the following discussion, we will make a distinction between acoustic neuromodulation and acoustic neurostimulation, where acoustic neuromodulation is defined as a change of the electrical activity of neurons under the influence of an acoustic stimulus and acoustic neurostimulation is defined as the occurrence of the electrical activity of neurons by the direct influence of an acoustic stimulus
In the context of the soliton model, acoustic neuromodulation may be considered a natural consequence of changes in temperature, pressure, or radiation pressure induced by ultrasound on the membrane
Summary
Neuromodulation methods, such as a deep brain stimulation, transcranial direct current stimulation, and transcranial magnetic stimulation, have attracted widespread attention due to their therapeutic effects in the treatment of neurological and psychiatric diseases [1]. Petrov [76] has proposed the idea that the mechanical changes associated with the AP propagation might arise from the flexoelectrical property of the cell membrane In his hypothesis, the voltage-gated ion channels still play a fundamental role in the generation and propagation of the AP and lipid phase transitions play no role. A strong enough membrane depolarization induces ionic currents through the voltage-gated ion channels, as in the H–H model, and at the same time induces a change of the membrane curvature through the inverse flexoelectric effect (Eq 15) He has argued that the AP is a flexoelectric wave, but to the best of our knowledge, no mathematical model has been developed to describe the propagation of this wave along the axon membrane.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
