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Related Concept Videos

Neurons as Communicators of the Brain01:22

Neurons as Communicators of the Brain

Neurons, the fundamental units of the brain and nervous system, function as the primary transmitters of information throughout the body. Their ability to communicate through electrical and chemical signals is vital for every bodily function, from regulating the heartbeat to processing complex thoughts. Each neuron has three main components: the cell body (soma), dendrites, and an axon, each specialized to facilitate swift and efficient neural communication.
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The Role of Ion Channels in Neuronal Computation01:19

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Updated: Jun 1, 2026

Large Scale Energy Efficient Sensor Network Routing Using a Quantum Processor Unit
05:30

Large Scale Energy Efficient Sensor Network Routing Using a Quantum Processor Unit

Published on: September 8, 2023

The brain is both neurocomputer and quantum computer.

Stuart R Hameroff1

  • 1Departments of Anesthesiology and Psychology, University of Arizona Health Sciences Center.

Cognitive Science
|June 4, 2011
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

The Penrose-Hameroff Orch OR quantum model of consciousness is defended against neurocomputation. It proposes quantum computations in microtubules explain consciousness, potentially accounting for gamma synchrony EEG.

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Perspectives on Neuroscience
26:41

Perspectives on Neuroscience

Published on: July 31, 2007

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Last Updated: Jun 1, 2026

Large Scale Energy Efficient Sensor Network Routing Using a Quantum Processor Unit
05:30

Large Scale Energy Efficient Sensor Network Routing Using a Quantum Processor Unit

Published on: September 8, 2023

Perspectives on Neuroscience
26:41

Perspectives on Neuroscience

Published on: July 31, 2007

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Quantum Computing
  • Consciousness Studies

Background:

  • The Penrose-Hameroff "Orch OR" model proposes quantum computation in brain microtubules underlies consciousness.
  • This model has been criticized in favor of neurocomputational explanations for mental phenomena.
  • The neural correlate of consciousness may involve coherent gamma synchrony electroencephalography (EEG).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To clarify and defend the Orch OR quantum computational model of consciousness.
  • To demonstrate the compatibility of the Orch OR model with neurocomputation.
  • To question the sufficiency of neurocomputation alone in explaining gamma synchrony EEG.

Main Methods:

  • Clarification and defense of the Orch OR model's principles.
  • Analysis of the integration of quantum computation within neurocomputational architectures.
  • Physiological and computational examination of gamma synchrony EEG in relation to consciousness.

Main Results:

  • The Orch OR model is clarified and defended as a viable approach to consciousness.
  • Orch OR and neurocomputation are shown to be compatible within a unified brain architecture.
  • Questions are raised about neurocomputation's ability to fully explain coherent gamma synchrony EEG.

Conclusions:

  • The Orch OR model, utilizing quantum computation in microtubules, offers a plausible mechanism for consciousness.
  • Consciousness may arise from quantum computational events synchronized with gamma EEG within "dendritic webs".
  • The integration of quantum and neurocomputational processes is key to understanding the brain's function.