Desynchronization of neural activity in a network model

Abstract Electric brain activity during seizures is often associated with hyperactive and synchronous bursts of activity. We investigated different protocols of electric stimulation in a model network as potential seizure control mechanisms. Our network consisted of a chain loop of cells with excitatory synapses, representing a neocortical microcircuit. Random fluctuations of the membrane potential in each neuron simulated activity originating from other areas. Overall depolarizing and hyperpolarizing currents were not effective in stopping synchronized activity in the network. An electric current proportional to the inverted field potential was an effective desynchronizing stimulus in smaller networks.

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