Bernstein Membrane Theory

Bernstein Membrane Theory: A Brief Review

Bernstein's membrane theory is one of the main theories describing the functioning of the nervous system. This theory was developed by the German physiologist Julius Bernstein at the end of the 19th century and continues to be relevant research today.

The basic idea of ​​the theory is that nerve impulses are transmitted through the membranes of nerve cells, which act as capacitors capable of storing and releasing charges. In addition, membranes also play a role in maintaining the resting potential of the nerve cell, which is the basis for the generation of the actual action potential.

According to Bernstein, the membrane potential of a nerve cell is formed due to differences in the concentration of ions inside and outside the cell, as well as due to the presence of ion channels in the membrane. When a nerve cell is excited, these channels open, which leads to a change in membrane potential and the emergence of an actual action potential.

Bernstein also investigated the role of the membrane in the transmission of nerve impulses at synapses. He proposed that when a nerve impulse reaches the terminal part of the axon, it causes the release of chemicals (neurotransmitters) that act on the membrane of the postsynaptic cell and cause a change in its potential.

Bernstein's membrane theory was a significant advance in understanding the physiology of the nervous system and had a profound influence on subsequent research in this area. Today, many aspects of the theory have been refined and expanded, but its basic ideas remain important for understanding the functioning of the nervous system.

The phenomenal evolution of Bernstein's ideas

By the beginning of the 20th century. the ideas of Bernstein and Griesinger were widely recognized in Europe and widely applied in practice. From that time on, Bernstein held regular seminars in Berlin, in which scientists from around the world participated. Bernstein wrote numerous scientific articles