Human skin is not just a protective layer; it is also home to neurons that perform advanced computations, similar to those in the brain. This revelation comes from researchers at Umeå University in Sweden, who discovered that neurons in the skin can carry out complex processes, such as addition and division. This ability enables them to process sensory information and respond appropriately.
The study, carried out on humans and other mammals, showed that skin neurons can adjust their sensitivity to touch. This adaptation helps the body to react to external stimuli, such as physical contact, in a more nuanced way. For instance, the neurons can distinguish between a slight breeze and a mosquito landing.
The researchers used a combination of experimental techniques, including cell recordings, imaging, and behavioural analyses, to reach these findings. The results could have significant implications for understanding the nervous system and developing treatments for conditions like chronic pain. The study also challenges the traditional view of the nervous system as a one-way communication channel, suggesting instead that it is a complex network of computation centres.
Go to source article: http://www.medfak.umu.se/english/about-the-faculty/news/newsdetailpage/neurons-in-human-skin-perform-advanced-calculations.cid238881