Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 3, 2026

09:43
Transmission of Multiple Signals through an Optical Fiber Using Wavefront Shaping
Published on: March 20, 2017
9.7K
Biophoton signal transmission and processing in the brain
1Wuhan Institute for Neuroscience and Neuroengineering, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan 430074, China.
Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology. B, Biology
|January 28, 2014
Summary
Neural communication may involve biophotons, or ultra-weak photon emissions, beyond traditional bioelectrical and chemical signaling. This review explores biophoton roles in higher brain functions and nervous system processing.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biophysics
- Cellular Communication
Background:
- Traditional models of neural communication rely on bioelectrical and chemical transmission.
- These models face challenges in explaining complex brain functions like consciousness and memory.
- Unanswered questions persist regarding neural encoding and network mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review experimental findings on biophoton involvement in neural processes.
- To discuss potential mechanisms of biophoton signal transmission and processing in the nervous system.
- To explore biophotons as a potential factor in understanding higher brain functions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of experimental evidence on biophoton emissions in biological systems.
- Analysis of theoretical frameworks suggesting biophoton roles in neural signaling.
- Discussion of underlying mechanisms for biophoton transmission and processing.
Main Results:
- Biophoton emissions (ultra-weak photon emissions) have been observed in various organisms.
- Emerging evidence suggests biophotons may contribute to neural signal transmission and processing.
- Biophotons offer a potential new avenue for understanding complex neural functions.
Conclusions:
- Biophoton signaling presents a novel perspective on neural communication.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms and significance of biophotons in the nervous system.
- Biophoton research could bridge the gap in explaining higher cognitive functions.
Related Concept Videos
Photoreceptors and Visual Pathways
8.5K
At the molecular level, visual signals trigger transformations in photopigment molecules, resulting in changes in the photoreceptor cell's membrane potential. The photon's energy level is denoted by its wavelength, with each specific wavelength of visible light associated with a distinct color. The spectral range of visible light, classified as electromagnetic radiation, spans from 380 to 720 nm. Electromagnetic radiation wavelengths exceeding 720 nm fall under the infrared category,...
8.5K
Neuronal Communication
5.5K
Neurons, the fundamental units of the brain and nervous system, communicate through complex electrochemical signals that underpin all cognitive and bodily functions. This communication is primarily facilitated by a process involving the generation and propagation of an action potential along the axon of the neuron. When the internal electrical charge of a neuron surpasses a certain threshold, an action potential is triggered. This rapid change in voltage travels swiftly along the axon to the...
5.5K
Brain Imaging
1.0K
Brain imaging technologies provide critical insights into both the structure and function of the human brain, enabling medical professionals and researchers to diagnose, study, and treat neurological disorders or psychiatric disorders more effectively.
These technologies include computerized axial tomography (CAT or CT scans), positron-emission tomography (PET scans), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and Transcranial Magnetic...
These technologies include computerized axial tomography (CAT or CT scans), positron-emission tomography (PET scans), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and Transcranial Magnetic...
1.0K
Parallel Processing
950
The brain processes sensory information rapidly due to parallel processing, which involves sending data across multiple neural pathways at the same time. This method allows the brain to manage various sensory qualities, such as shapes, colors, movements, and locations, all concurrently. For instance, when observing a forest landscape, the brain simultaneously processes the movement of leaves, the shapes of trees, the depth between them, and the various shades of green. This enables a quick and...
950

