Rhythmogenic neuronal networks, emergent leaders, and k-cores

David J. Schwab, Robijn F. Bruinsma, Jack L. Feldman, and Alex J. Levine
Phys. Rev. E 82, 051911 – Published 8 November 2010

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.

  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Received 10 December 2008

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.82.051911

©2010 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

David J. Schwab and Robijn F. Bruinsma

  • Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095-1596, USA

Jack L. Feldman

  • Systems Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California 90095-1763, USA

Alex J. Levine

  • Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry and The California Nanosystems Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, California 90095-1596, USA

Article Text (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand

References (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand
Issue

Vol. 82, Iss. 5 — November 2010

Reuse & Permissions
Access Options
Author publication services for translation and copyediting assistance advertisement

Authorization Required


×
×

Images

×

Sign up to receive regular email alerts from Physical Review E

Log In

Cancel
×

Search


Article Lookup

Paste a citation or DOI

Enter a citation
×