Work

Rhythmogenic neuronal networks, emergent leaders, and k -cores

Year: 2010

Type: article

Abstract: Neuronal network behavior results from a combination of the dynamics of individual neurons and the connectivity of the network that links them together. We study a simplified model, based on the proposal of Feldman and Del Negro (FDN) [Nat. Rev. Neurosci. 7, 232 (2006)], of the preBötzinger Complex, a small neuronal network that participates in the control of the mammalian breathing rhythm through periodic firing bursts. The dynamics of this randomly connected network of identical excitatory neurons differ from those of a uniformly connected one. Specifically, network connectivity determines the identity of emergent leader neurons that trigger the firing bursts. When neuronal desensitization is controlled by the number of input signals to the neurons (as proposed by FDN), the network's collective desensitization--required for successful burst termination--is mediated by k-core clusters of neurons.

Source: Physical Review E

DOI: 10.1103/physreve.82.051911

Authors: David J. Schwab, Robijn F. Bruinsma, Jack L. Feldman, Alex J. Levine

Institutions: University of California, Los Angeles, California NanoSystems Institute

Language: English

Topic: Neural dynamics and brain function

Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funder: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Awards: Generation of Respiratory Rhythm, Respiratory Pattern Generation Studied In Vitro