外电场作用下神经元网络同步特性

Synchronizing characteristics of neural network subject to external electric field

研究了外部电场对神经元网络同步活动的潜在作用机制。基于HH神经元模型,通过改进的欧拉法对描述神经元模型的微分方程进行数值求解,分别研究了直流和交流电场作用下兴奋—抑制性神经元网络的同步行为。结果表明,直流电场可以有效地削弱引入适应性电流及解除抑制性突触连接所引起的网络同步性减弱的趋势;对于交流电场同样可以削弱适应性电流所引起的负面影响,且网络的同步活动对交流电场的幅值和频率都存在一定的选择性。研究结论有助于推动以电刺激作为治疗某些神经系统疾病的有效手段的进一步发展。

This paper investigated the underlying mechanisms of electric field （EF） on the synchronization of neural network. Based on HH neuron model, it solved the differential equations of neuron numerically by using the modified Euler method, it investigated the effects of EF on the synchronization of excitatory-inhibitory network. The DC EF weakened the trend of impairing the network synchronization, due to introducing the adaptation current and removing the inhibitory connection; the AC EF also counteracted the negative effect because of adaptation current, moreover, the synchronous activities of the network were dependent on the amplitude and frequency of the AC EF. The results can contribute to further development of EF stimulation on treatment of neurological diseases.