Self-terminating wave patterns and self-organized pacemakers in a phenomenological model of spreading depression

Abstract A simple reaction–diffusion model of spreading depression (SD) is presented. Its local dynamics are governed by two activator and two inhibitor variables that provide an extremely simplified description of the mutual interaction between the neurons and extracellular space. This interaction...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Brain research 2012-01, Vol.1434, p.200-211
Main Authors: Postnov, D.E, Postnov, D.D, Schimansky-Geier, L
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Action Potentials - physiology
Animals
Autonomous pacemaker
Cortical Spreading Depression - physiology
FitzHugh-Nagumo
Humans
Models, Neurological
Neurology
Neurons - physiology
Reaction Time - physiology
Retracting wave
Spreading depression
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Summary:Abstract A simple reaction–diffusion model of spreading depression (SD) is presented. Its local dynamics are governed by two activator and two inhibitor variables that provide an extremely simplified description of the mutual interaction between the neurons and extracellular space. This interaction is realized by the substances in the extracellular space that are increasing excitability of the neurons that have released them and are diffusing to the neighboring neurons, thereby spreading this excitation. Typical dynamic patterns of simulated activity are presented. The focus is laid on the case where response of the extracellular medium is relatively fast, and retracting waves, spiral-shaped waves, and autonomous pacemakers are observed, which is in good agreement with experimental observations. The underlying mechanisms are found to be related to switching between the local bi-stable, excitable, and self-sustained dynamics in the simulated medium. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Neural Coding.
ISSN:0006-8993
1872-6240
DOI:10.1016/j.brainres.2011.10.001