Discovery proves nerve signal theory

Scientists have proved a 60-year-old theory about how nerve signals are sent around the body at varying speeds as electrical impulses. University researchers tested how these signals are transmitted through nerve fibres, which enables us to move and recognise sensations such as touch and smell. Their findings validate an idea first proposed by Nobel laureate Sir Andrew Huxley. Role of insulating myelin. It has been known for many years that an insulating layer - known as myelin - which surrounds nerve fibres is crucial in determining how quickly nerve signals are sent. This insulating myelin is interrupted at regular intervals along the nerve by gaps called nodes. Scientists, whose work was funded by the Wellcome Trust, have now proved that the longer the distance between nodes, the quicker the nerve fibres send signals down the nerves.