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Scientists Discover Love Nerve
Posted: July 29th, 2002Posted By: Mike G

Scientists have discovered a tender touch 'love nerve'
linked to romance and sexual arousal.

The nerves, called C tactile fibres, only react to slow
stroking and stimulate the emotional part of the brain.

Until now, experts have wondered what the CT fibres are for,
as they're not needed for feeling objects and don't react to temperature or pain.

Swedish and Canadian researchers tested their theory on a
woman who'd lost all the main touch nerves in her body.

They were able to stimulate the CT nerves in isolation using
a paint brush and monitor her brain's reaction.

When they stroked her forearm and the back of her hand she felt
a faint but pleasurable non-tickling sensation.

When the brush was applied to her palm, which lacks CT
fibres, she did not feel anything.

Scans showed areas of the brain involved in emotions
were activated by stroking.

The scientists found the CT fibres are unlike other touch nerves
because they react to tenderness, rather than strong pressure
or vibration.

Hakan Olausson, of Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenberg,
led the research. The results of the study feature
in the journal Nature Neuroscience.

Story filed: 08:27 Monday 29th July 2002

Editor: Stupid asses, I found my 'love nerve' when I was only 12!

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