User:The Gallifreyan

I've only been a Whovian for a short time, but I've become a dedicated fan. I believe Doctor Who can teach us a lot about ourselves and how we view others.

I have a few theories about several aspects of the Whovian Universe. However, at this point, they are just theories and there is no evidence to support them.

I have a rather unique idea about how regeneration works and why it is believed by some that the maximum number of regenerations a Time Lord can complete is twelve. It also provides an explanation as to why the Doctor's personality can change so drastically.

My theory is that Lindos (the hormone mentioned in The Twin Dilemma and Unregenerate!) is excreted in times of severe stress or trauma, not unlike adrenaline in humans. However, Lindos triggers a genetic reshuffling which is, in part, controllable. The mind of a Time Lord, having experienced the Untempered Schism, is able to perform telepathic and telekinetic feats with the proper training and concentration. This is how Romana and River Song were able to choose their appearance as they regenerated. This may also explain the Doctor's second regeneration: it was induced through the telepathic/telekinetic abilities that the regeneration process was triggered. It is also how the tenth doctor was able to postpone his regeneration and how the Master was able to prevent it altogether. Since Lindos triggers a genetic reshuffling, the Time Lord's brain, specifically the areas which control the higher functions, is reorganized. The severity is partially determined by how much control the Doctor has over the regeneration process. Regeneration causes effects not dissimilar to suffering a concussion or other brain trauma. Hence, if the regeneration is especially difficult, things like temporary amnesia or a coma-like state can result. The regeneration energy tends to repair any damage, but it cannot return the brain to its previous state. As to why it is said a Time Lord can only regenerate 12 times, it may be that unless the Time Lord has well-developed mental abilities, he or she becomes unable to mentally recover from the regeneration and suffers cognitive failure. Also, experiencing multiple changes to one's personality combined with the mental stresses of living for over a millennium could drive Time Lords to madness and result in regeneration failure.

Just my thoughts on the subject so far.