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drichard's picture

symphony

The infinitesimal nature of the foundation of the human body has always astounded me. We are made up of so many tiny parts, and the nervous system, as we learned, is no exception. Action potentials and their propagation require the harmonius, synchronized function of countless chemicals and protein bodies. It has often benefited me to look at the nervous system (and many other body systems) as a symphony of sorts. If all the individual instruments (the chemicals and proteins) play well, the body's song as a whole will be pleasing; the body will be healthy. However, with so many instruments there are many opportunities for mistakes. If one instrument is out of tune the symphony risks dissolving into noise. I find it amazing that the musical product of the symphony of our nerves is so consistently sensible and cohesive, especially throughout complex actions.

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