Computational model of an adaptive rhythm generator within the olivocerebellar system


KUNTALP M.

NETWORK-COMPUTATION IN NEURAL SYSTEMS, vol.16, no.1, pp.55-84, 2005 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 16 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2005
  • Doi Number: 10.1080/09548980500272995
  • Journal Name: NETWORK-COMPUTATION IN NEURAL SYSTEMS
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.55-84
  • Keywords: computational model, adaptive rhythm generator, olivocerebellar system, INFERIOR OLIVARY NEURONS, MEDIAL ACCESSORY OLIVE, COMPLEX SPIKE ACTIVITY, NEURAL-NETWORK MODEL, CEREBELLAR CORTEX, PURKINJE-CELLS, GUINEA-PIG, IONIC CONDUCTANCES, DENDRITIC SPINES, CONDUCTION TIME
  • Dokuz Eylül University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate via computation whether the olivocerebellar system is capable of functioning as an adaptive rhythm generator. For this purpose, a detailed and physiologically realistic computational model of the olivocerebellar system is developed, based on the known intrinsic cell and network topological properties of this brain system. The present network, where individual cells are modelled by leaky integrate-and-fire units, converts the irregular spikes produced by the olivary cells into a precise rhythmic signal at the output. The simulation results reveal that the computational model, which normally does not exhibit any rhythmic activity, could be switched into a new mode in which it functions as a rhythm generator producing pulses within three different frequency ranges corresponding to alpha, beta, or gamma bands, respectively. In either mode of operation, the firing rates of all simulated cell types are observed to match real data. The results of this study therefore support the experimental findings of researchers who argue that a biological clock producing rhythmic pulses within different temporal ranges is located within the cerebellum.