I have discussed columns of neurons in the context of cerebral modules in my books and related blog posts. Dr. Lieff addresses them in his article:
“Columns of cells, or multiple related columns, are a frequent anatomic brain structure, such as in the cortex. In these columns, the dynamic node includes proximity to other structures, but, also, individual and group behavior of neurons, electric currents, and alterations that occur with factors that modulate neurons. These dynamic relationships between neurons and regions of neurons can change in an instant, with one neuron participating in two totally different brain-wide neuroplastic circuits in milliseconds. [By what mechanism do these instant changes happen? Read on.]
“. . . Some slow and fast waves can work together through a process called coupling [I have discussed this relationship in my writings]. By coupling, many different brain regions can communicate together at the same time using multiple different frequencies. Coupling is a complex process where one rhythm nests within another and is carried along with it. Cross frequency coupling occurs when slower and faster frequencies work together - faster somehow nested inside the slower rhythms. . . . In the cortex, slow theta waves in the range of 5 to 8 Hz couple with much faster gamma waves and modulate the powerful gamma messages that appear to link distant brain regions. These long-range connections have raised the question whether gamma waves are part of the process that brings together all the disparate parts of conscious experience. . . . many of the brain’s neurons have multi sensory inputs and connections to multiple modalities. Precise rhythms are critical in the brain’s ability to differentiate and use multi modal inputs. For any task, many different brain regions are active and integrated through both multiple synapses and multiple brain waves. Networks use specific frequencies to tie information and neuronal groups together.”
“. . . Brain waves when they arrive at distant locations can have very different interactions and effects based on the local anatomy and physiology. These processes occur in milliseconds, far faster than any available imaging.”
In the last post taken from this article I will include Dr. Lieff’s challenging and insightful proposal!