May 31, 2011

Mauthner Cell

Funny, the primal cells that brains contain:


"Every fish has two Mauthner cells, located in the bottom part of the brainstem, one on the left side and one on the right.... The synapses generated by a Mauthner cell are so powerful that a single action potential gives rise to a major behavioral response: within milliseconds the fish curves its body into a C-shape, then straightens, thereby propelling itself rapidly forward. Functionally this is a fast escape response, triggered most easily by a strong sound wave or pressure wave impinging on the lateral line organ of the fish."


via. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nervous_system

No comments:

Post a Comment