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Cochlear SGN neurons elevate pain thresholds in response to music
R I M Dunbar1, Eiluned Pearce2,3, Bronwyn Tarr4
1Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Anna Watts Building, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Oxford, OX1 6GG, UK. robin.dunbar@psy.ox.ac.uk.
Scientific Reports
|July 16, 2021
Summary
Head nodding, like music, may enhance social bonding by activating the brain's endorphin system. This study found that nodding the head increased pain thresholds, suggesting endorphin release for social connection.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Social Psychology
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- The C-tactile (CLTM) peripheral nervous system plays a role in social bonding by activating endorphin release.
- Mammalian cochleae contain a high density of type-II spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs), similar to CLTM neurons.
- Rhythmic head movements, such as nodding during music, are common in social contexts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential role of type-II SGNs in social bonding.
- To explore whether head movements can co-opt neural pathways for social bonding.
- To examine the link between rhythmic head movements, endorphin release, and social connection.
Main Methods:
- Two experiments were conducted to assess changes in pain threshold.
- Pain threshold was used as a proxy for endorphin uptake in the brain.
- Participants' pain thresholds were measured while nodding their heads versus sitting still.
Main Results:
- Pain thresholds were significantly higher when participants nodded their heads compared to when they were sitting still.
- This suggests that head nodding activates the brain's endorphin system.
- The findings support the hypothesis that head movements can contribute to social bonding.
Conclusions:
- Head nodding, similar to music, may serve as a mechanism for 'virtual grooming' by triggering endorphin release.
- This neural pathway could facilitate social bonding in both dyadic relationships and larger groups.
- The study provides novel insights into the neurobiological underpinnings of social connection and music perception.
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