Modeling of inhomogeneous electromagnetic fields in the nervous system: a novel paradigm in understanding cell interactions, disease etiology and therapy

Abstract

All major processes in the nervous system depend on interactions between cells and nerve fibers. In this work we present a novel model of inhomogeneous electromagnetic fields originating from nerve fibers and delineate their influence on cells. By expanding Hodgkin-Huxley’s applied current into axial current, governed by, we reveal that cell-with-neuron interactions are regulated by the strength of the electromagnetic fields, which are homogeneous up to 2.066 μm or 6.606 μm away from neurilemma and axolemma, respectively. At the nodes of Ranvier, these fields reach strengths of 3.0 × 10−12T, while at the myelinated segments they only peak at 2.3 × 10−12T. These are the same fields which are, due to inhomogeneity, detected as 1,000 times weaker by magnetoencephalography. Considering the widespread occurrence of neurodegenerative disorders, our model reveals that a 50% demyelination increases the field strength by 0.35 × 10−12T, while a complete demyelination increases it by 0.7 × 10−12T. Since this suggests that the inhomogeneous electromagnetic fields around neurons play a role in physiological and pathological processes, including cell-to-neuron and cell-to-cell communication, their improved understanding opens up new therapeutic strategies based on electromagnetic field modulation or cell’s surface charge alteration.

Is a Quantum Biosensing Revolution Approaching? Perspectives in NV‐Assisted Current and Thermal Biosensing in Living Cells

“…Both the axial current and the corresponding magnetic field have been estimated. [ 115–117 ] In particular, ref. [115] goes beyond the simplification of the Hodgkin–Huxley model, introducing the spatial and temporal progression of the AP along the various neuronal compartments, into which they have divided the axon.…”

Molecular mechanisms of microglia- and astrocyte-driven neurorestoration triggered by application of electromagnetic fields

“…Molecular basis of microglia and astrocyte-mediated neurorestoration upon EMF application. Based on the current knowledge and the role of astrocyte-microglia crosstalk in neurorestoration, one of the main mechanisms behind the regenerative properties of EMF is its regulation of the microglial and astrocytic activity and, with that, the function of the innate immune system (4-6).…”

“…Since it has been shown that electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are effective in reducing the pain of various etiologies through modification of innate immunity (1-4), it has been hypothesized that application of EMFs may either slow down neurodegeneration or decrease the neuroinflammatory processes within the central or peripheral nervous system (PNS) (5,6). This approach could help to initiate neurorestoration.…”

“…Treatment of autoimmune diseases, as well as general boosting of the immune system, has so far been performed by using drugs (12-16) or nanotechnology (17-21). The most recent trend in medical research aims to use EMFs to fine-tune the immune response through modulation of cell membrane charges, ion flow, and cell mobility, be it in the innate immune response within the CNS or the rest of the body (6,22-28).…”

“…Both external and internal EMFs have the ability not only to modify charge distribution through directing the movement of ions within the cells and the extracellular space, but also to impact the opening and closing of some voltage gated calcium channels. This is why they have recently attracted an increasing interest as a form of therapy which may initiate tissue regeneration and restoration – this also includes the innate electromagnetic fields generated around neurons discussed in our previous article (6). Thus, the brain has entered the spotlight of EMF therapy, which can target either the innate immune cells within the CNS, the cells that govern the initiation of the immune response (such as microglia and astrocytes), or other cell types within the brain.…”