CSF Transmits Light, Vibrations, Movement, Molecules

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Neuroscience student Calvin Carter gave us this image of the ependymal cilia in the cerebral ventricles that illustrate the receptors found on the cells. Photoreceptors transmit information from light. Chemoreceptors transmit information from chemicals such as growth factors, ions or hormones. Mechanoreceptors transmit information in regards to flow, movement and vibration.

Because these receptors are on ventricle walls, they are receiving information from molecules in the CSF. Molecules of information are released in the CSF and transmitted to all parts of the brain simultaneously. There are no synapses in the process, no cells that have to communicate to one another. These molecules create a synchronized pulsation within the CSF through which all of the regulatory areas, nuclear areas and relay areas of the brain are influenced.