Theoretical Analysis of the Effects of THz-IR Modulation of Ion Channel Permeability on Neuronal Electrical Activity

Both theoretical simulations and experimental studies have tentatively shown that terahertz(THz) or mid-infrared(IR) electromagnetic waves are capable of modifying the permeability of specific ion channels. Vacuum electronics are an indispensable high-power source for conducting terahertz bioeffects experiments. However, there is currently a lack of theoretical tools to link kinetic simulations with electrophysiological experiments on relevant biological effects. Based on a modified Hodgkin-Huxley model, this paper analyzes the effect of the altered channel permeability properties on the electrical activity of neurons. Simulations showed that the alteration of ion channel permeability could directly trigger the action potential of neurons. This study bridges the interconnection between the phenomena in relevant theoretical simulations and experimental studies.