Spruston discusses the very complex properties of apical and basal dendrites. Dendritic spikes include both calcium and sodium spikes activated at the ionic channels for these two ions by synaptic input. How the postulated wave forms generated by the cognitive mind may interact with the components of ionic channels, likely involving quantum tunneling, to generate these spikes is an unanswered question. “Once initiated, dendritic spikes propagate towards the soma where, in some cases, they can initiate an action potential. . . . [Spruston points out that] dendritic spikes do not propagate reliably from the apical tuft into the main apical dendrite,” propagation depending upon whether a ‘gate’ is opened or closed that governs the influence of distally generated dendritic spikes on axonal action-potential initiation.”
So we see that the function of apical tufts remains under study and that spike generation in dendrites and axons is most complex. Initiation of spikes in ionic channels and synapses by cognition is not ruled out. Spruston concludes with the statement that the answering of questions about dendritic function “will move [us] closer to a detailed understanding of the complex and dynamic function of pyramidal neurons, a crucial key to unlocking the mysteries of cortical function.”
I conclude my discussion of this aspect of cognition. My intent has been to show how progress in neuroscience is being made to shed light on an understanding of dualist interaction between the immaterial mind and the brain. There is much yet to learn, but I am confident that findings will reveal concordance between Scripture and science, so that our faith that the Holy Spirit communes with us in our time is strengthened.