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jester56
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Dear All,
thank you for taking the time to view my post. I am a Biologist and I have come across a curious characteristic of proteins that are structural constituents of Nerve cell sheaths (These proteins in addition to lipids surround nerve axons). In general, they seem to have a high refractive index, not far off that found in crystallins that form the lens of the eye.
I was just wondering if there is any reason physical reason why such a property may provide functional significance to the propagation of nerve impulses, which essentially result from the movement of charged ions separated by a membrane through a channel (simplified version). The proteins in question are found in the sheath on the external side of the membrane.
I realize that this is a biology question but I have posted it here as it concerns the physics of any relations between refractive index, electrical conduction and insulation.
I found some information about semiconductors that have a layer of material with a high refractive index surrounding them but I am unclear whether this is relevant and in what capacity this layer is acting, specifically the role of high refractive index.
I am curious because for some reason these proteins have evolved this characteristic, and whilst it may possibly be incidental, the data is intriguing.
Any opinions would be greatly appreciated. I thank you all in advance.
Jester
thank you for taking the time to view my post. I am a Biologist and I have come across a curious characteristic of proteins that are structural constituents of Nerve cell sheaths (These proteins in addition to lipids surround nerve axons). In general, they seem to have a high refractive index, not far off that found in crystallins that form the lens of the eye.
I was just wondering if there is any reason physical reason why such a property may provide functional significance to the propagation of nerve impulses, which essentially result from the movement of charged ions separated by a membrane through a channel (simplified version). The proteins in question are found in the sheath on the external side of the membrane.
I realize that this is a biology question but I have posted it here as it concerns the physics of any relations between refractive index, electrical conduction and insulation.
I found some information about semiconductors that have a layer of material with a high refractive index surrounding them but I am unclear whether this is relevant and in what capacity this layer is acting, specifically the role of high refractive index.
I am curious because for some reason these proteins have evolved this characteristic, and whilst it may possibly be incidental, the data is intriguing.
Any opinions would be greatly appreciated. I thank you all in advance.
Jester