Centre for Computational Neuroscience Berlin - Teilprojekt B 5: Neural rhythms, synaptic plasticity, and network stability

We plan to explore how the dynamical and functional stability of recurrent neural networks depends on their large-scale activity patterns, synaptic plasticity and temporal input structure. To do so, we will compare two systems with clinically relevant instabilities: the hippocampal CA3 region and the entorhinal cortex. Both structures are well known for their various oscillatory states under normal conditions and their role in epilepsy. What are the mechanisms behind these physiological and pathophysiological rhythms? What is the role of inhibitory interactions in generating oscillations? Does synaptic plasticity depend on the network state, e.g., the phase of large-scale oscillations? How are these two systems (de)stabilized? Using computational models of networks with spiking neurons, we ultimately aim to develop clinical strategies that can functionally re-stabilize unstable systems through external stimulation or neuromodulation paradigms.