title: Information processing in brain microtubules.
abstract: Models of the mind are based on the idea that neuron microtubules can perform computation. From this point of view, information processing is the fundamental issue for understanding the brain mechanisms that produce consciousness. The cytoskeleton polymers could store and process information through their dynamic coupling mediated by mechanical energy. We analyze the problem of information transfer and storage in brain microtubules, considering them as a communication channel. We discuss the implications of assuming that consciousness is generated by the subneuronal process.
authors.affiliation: Laboratório Nacional de Computação Científica -- LNCC, Av. Getúlio Vargas 333 -- Quitandinha, 25651-075 Petrópolis, RJ, Brazil. faber@lncc.br
authors.forename: Jean
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Faber
authors.forename: Renato
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Portugal
authors.forename: Luiz Pinguelli
authors.initials: LP
authors.lastname: Rosa
mesh_terms: D055592:Biophysical Phenomena; D001703:Biophysics; D001921:Brain; D003243:Consciousness; D008870:Microtubules / Q000737:chemistry*; D008954:Models, Biological