An Auxiliary Educational Tool for Propagating Single and Compound Nerve Action Potential

Abstract

Objective: The use of simulation in medical education has become an important and successfully implemented auxiliary method, recently. In this study, we aimed to present a compact screen-based computer simulation for second year medical students so that they may experience various aspects of peripheral nerve electrophysiology by themselves. Methods: The model used in the calculations combines both the passive and active membrane properties which were described in passive cable theory and in the classical study of Hodgkin and Huxley on membrane potential generation, respectively. Results: The simulation provides numerical and visual demonstration for various electrophysiological features of nerve cell such as membrane potential development, threshold stimulus, refractoriness, conduction in myelinated fiber, myelin and temperature effect on conduction etc. Besides, users may also have experience on propagation of compound nerve action potential that is the combined activation of nerve fibers. Conclusion: We suggest that this simulation may be considered as an auxiliary tool for classical physiology laboratory sessions. It is our intent to share and to make the simulation freely available to all interested readers.