Effect of Carbon Nanotubes on The Propagation of Neural Signals*

Studies have shown that carbon nanotubes scaffolds promote the growth of neurons along the nanotube axis and also enhance neural signaling. In addition carbon nanotubes have been successfully incorporated into cells as transmembrane channels and as bridges connecting with the intracellular and intercellular microtubule scaffolds which function as cellular transportation highways. Based on laboratory experiments in the literature, it is clear that carbon nanotubes will play an ever increasing role in neurological research acting to enhance properties or to serve in a sensing capacity.
To investigate the effects of nanotubes on neuron properties, we report finite element based simulations of voltage pulse propagation along neural membranes in the presence of incorporated carbon nanotubes. Results will be used to help determine the origin of neural enhancement in neuron-nanotube complexes and to look for mechanisms by which a nanotube proximal to a neuron may act as a sensor allowing imaging of neural signals.