The Primary Role of the Electric Near-Field in Brain Function

Abstract

The origin and spatial-temporal structure of the endogenous (internal) electric nearfields associated with the neurological network activity of the brain are described. Recent discoveries have elevated the importance of the endogenous fields to a leading role of primary phenomena, as opposed to the traditionally thought secondary role of epiphenomena. This implies that the spatial-temporal structures of the brain's endogenous fields are rich in information that directly convey brain health. Understanding the spatial-temporal structures of the endogenous fields under healthy and unhealthy conditions coupled with the technologies needed to sense and manage these fields opens a world of possibilities for the rational design of clinically accurate, wearable neurodevices to diagnose, therapeutically treat, and manage chronic neurological dysfunctions, mental disorders, and traumatic injuries. The World Health Organization reports that more than 1 billion people worldwide, irrespective of age, sex, education, or income, suffer because of neurological disorders. Devices of the type described here will provide clarity and relief to those individuals that have an impaired neurological system.