I just picked up the latest issue of Scientific American, and there was an interesting article that could alter the study of all human thought.
The Other Half of the Brain
That is the link, though the full article is not there. So now I will try and summarize its contents.
Scientists have begun to look back into the theory that neurons are not the leading cell used to process thought and reactions.
Glial cells, which have long been pondered over their significance, are now being looked at as to whether or not they have as much, or more, importance to communications in the brain and nervous system as neurons.
Studies were conducted on the late Albert Einstein's brain to dig deeper as to what his brain had that the normal human's did not.
Einstein's neuron cell count was average in comparison to that of the average human, yet it was found that his Glial cell count was much higher. Now while one study does not find proof, it does add more evidence to the pile.
Glial cells are slightly similar to that of neurons, and infact have been shown to be able to communicate with neurons.
Glial cells may be the link to developing and maintaining memories. Which in turn would help the learning and communication process tremendously. Glial cells are also being tested to determine whether they help repair the nervous system.
This seems to be fantastic news. The fact that these cells have been overlooked for so long, and are now being proved to have such a major role in brain/nervous activity is outstanding. If any of you have any counter/thoughts on this, please feel free. Otherwise I just thought it was great news.
