Abstract
Recent experiments in rats have shown the occurrence of a high amplitude slow brain wave in the EEG approximately 1 minute after decapitation, with a duration of 5–15 s (van Rijn et al, PLoS One 6, e16514, 2011) that was presumed to signify the death of brain neurons. We present a computational model of a single neuron and its intra- and extracellular ion concentrations, which shows the physiological mechanism for this observation. The wave is caused by membrane potential oscillations, that occur after the cessation of activity of the sodium-potassium pumps has lead to an excess of extracellular potassium. These oscillations can be described by the Hodgkin-Huxley equations for the sodium and potassium channels, and result in a sudden change in mean membrane voltage. In combination with a high-pass filter, this sudden depolarization leads to a wave in the EEG. We discuss that this process is not necessarily irreversible.
Highlights
Oxygen and glucose deprivation has almost immediate effects on brain function, typically causing symptoms in approximately 5– 7 seconds
Using Hodgkin-Huxley dynamics to describe the voltage-dependent ion channel dynamics, including oxygen/glucose dependent ion pumps, we show that severe oxygen-glucose deprivation results in a sudden depolarization of the membrane voltage
Dynamic phenomena that occur during hypoxia and the way they are reflected in the EEG are only partially understood
Summary
Oxygen and glucose deprivation has almost immediate effects on brain function, typically causing symptoms in approximately 5– 7 seconds. This dysfunction is reflected in the electroencephalogram (EEG), generally consisting of an increase in slow wave activity and in the cessation of activity. These phenomena are a direct consequence of synaptic failure of pyramidal cells [1], reflecting the high metabolic demand of synaptic transmission [2]. After half a minute of electrocerebral silence, a slow wave with a duration of approximately 5–15 seconds appeared (Figure 1). It was suggested that this wave might reflect the synchronous death of brain neurons [3] and was named the ‘‘Wave of Death’’
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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.
