Dataset Information

Modeling driver cells in developing neuronal networks.

ABSTRACT: Spontaneous emergence of synchronized population activity is a characteristic feature of developing brain circuits. Recent experiments in the developing neo-cortex showed the existence of driver cells able to impact the synchronization dynamics when single-handedly stimulated. We have developed a spiking network model capable to reproduce the experimental results, thus identifying two classes of driver cells: functional hubs and low functionally connected (LC) neurons. The functional hubs arranged in a clique orchestrated the synchronization build-up, while the LC drivers were lately or not at all recruited in the synchronization process. Notwithstanding, they were able to alter the network state when stimulated by modifying the temporal activation of the functional clique or even its composition. LC drivers can lead either to higher population synchrony or even to the arrest of population dynamics, upon stimulation. Noticeably, some LC driver can display both effects depending on the received stimulus. We show that in the model the presence of inhibitory neurons together with the assumption that younger cells are more excitable and less connected is crucial for the emergence of LC drivers. These results provide a further understanding of the structural-functional mechanisms underlying synchronized firings in developing circuits possibly related to the coordinated activity of cell assemblies in the adult brain.

SUBMITTER: Luccioli S

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6235603 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Modeling driver cells in developing neuronal networks.

Luccioli Stefano S Angulo-Garcia David D Cossart Rosa R Malvache Arnaud A Módol Laura L Sousa Vitor Hugo VH Bonifazi Paolo P Torcini Alessandro A

PLoS computational biology 20181102 11

Spontaneous emergence of synchronized population activity is a characteristic feature of developing brain circuits. Recent experiments in the developing neo-cortex showed the existence of driver cells able to impact the synchronization dynamics when single-handedly stimulated. We have developed a spiking network model capable to reproduce the experimental results, thus identifying two classes of driver cells: functional hubs and low functionally connected (LC) neurons. The functional hubs arrang ...[more]

PMID: 30388120

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Modeling driver cells in developing neuronal networks.

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Modeling driver cells in developing neuronal networks.

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