The thermodynamic theory of action potential propagation: a sound basis for unification of the physics of nerve impulses.

Benjamin Drukarch,Shamit Shrivastava,Micha M M Wilhelmus

doi:10.1515/revneuro-2021-0094

Abstract

The thermodynamic theory of action potential propagation challenges the conventional understanding of the nerve signal as an exclusively electrical phenomenon. Often misunderstood as to its basic tenets and predictions, the thermodynamic theory is virtually ignored in mainstream neuroscience. Addressing a broad audience of neuroscientists, we here attempt to stimulate interest in the theory. We do this by providing a concise overview of its background, discussion of its intimate connection to Albert Einstein's treatment of the thermodynamics of interfaces and outlining its potential contribution to the building of a physical brain theory firmly grounded in first principles and the biophysical reality of individual nerve cells. As such, the paper does not attempt to advocate the superiority of the thermodynamic theory over any other approach to model the nerve impulse, but is meant as an open invitation totheneuroscience community to experimentally test the assumptions and predictions of the theory on their validity.

Highlights

The thermodynamic theory of action potential propagation challenges the conventional understanding of the nerve signal as an exclusively electrical phenomenon
Addressing a broad audience of neuroscientists, we here attempt to stimulate interest in the theory. We do this by providing a concise overview of its background, discussion of its intimate connection to Albert Einstein’s treatment of the thermodynamics of interfaces and outlining its potential contribution to the building of a physical brain theory firmly grounded in first principles and the biophysical reality of individual nerve cells
In analogy to the operation of the popular digital electronic information processors generally known as computers, the non-linear, voltagedependent, propagation of a binary electric signal along the axonal membrane of individual nerve cells is interpreted as neuronal information processing manifesting itself in the form of a digital neuronal code consisting of a train of so-called action potentials

Summary

Introduction

The thermodynamic theory of action potential propagation challenges the conventional understanding of the nerve signal as an exclusively electrical phenomenon. This implies that according to this “thermodynamic” theory the physical characteristics of the wave representing the nerve impulse are derived from the principles of macroscopic thermodynamics and conservation laws, rather than the molecular-level entities like ion channel proteins, as in the prevailing electrical theory.

Results

Conclusion