Consciousness and the Axon Initial Segment.

Summary

The QBIT theory proposes that consciousness arises from macroscopic coherence emerging in the axon initial segment of neurons, a specialized compartment that integrates synaptic inputs and amplifies sensory signals. This coherence is necessary for conscious perception, as the axon initial segment's unique properties enable spontaneous emergence of this state. The theory links consciousness to a specific intracellular substrate that registers and processes sensory information within the brain.

Study at a glance

Abstract

According to the QBIT theory, consciousness depends on the emergence of macroscopic coherence in a specific intracellular substrate which registers and processes sensory information. This occurs in a particular neuronal compartment called the axon initial segment which has unique properties not found in other neuronal segments. These unique properties allow the integration of synaptic inputs, amplification of sensory signals, and spontaneous emergence of coherence which is necessary for conscious perception.