ESTIMATING PARAMETERS OF A MULTI-CLASS IZHIKEVICH NEURON MODEL TO INVESTIGATE THE MECHANISMS OF DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION

The aim of the research is to provide a computationally efficient neural network model for the study of deep brain stimulation efficacy in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. An Izhikevich neuron model was used to accomplish this task and four classes of neurons were modeled. The parameters of each class were estimated using a genetic algorithm with a fitness function based on spike frequency as a function of input current. After computing the optimal parameters the neurons were interconnected to form the network model. The estimated parameters were capable of replicating the normal firing characteristics for each type of neuron, but failed to replicate richer spiking characteristics such as post-inhibitory bursting and tonic firing. Without these characteristics, the network was unable to produce biologically feasible results. Findings indicate the Izhikevich model relies heavily on manual tuning and must be trained under an extensive set of conditions to allow for the majority of spiking characteristics to be learned. The use of the Izhikevich model in a network simulation will always be limited to the characteristics trained on a single neuron. When connected to the network the neuron may be exposed to a variety of unlearned conditions and therefore may not be capable of replicating biologically realistic behavior.

Grantor dc:publisher

Temple University. Libraries

Year dc:date.issued

2013

Author dc:creator

• Tufts, Christopher

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Obeid, Iyad, 1975-

Committee members dc:contributor.committeemember

• Picone, Joseph
• Bai, Li

• Electrical Engineering
• Neurosciences
• Deep Brain Stimulation
• Estimation
• Genetic Algorithm
• Hodgkin Huxley
• Izhikevich
• Parkinson's Disease

Statement dc:rights

• IN COPYRIGHT- This Rights Statement can be used for an Item that is in copyright. Using this statement implies that the organization making this Item available has determined that the Item is in copyright and either is the rights-holder, has obtained permission from the rights-holder(s) to make their Work(s) available, or makes the Item available under an exception or limitation to copyright (including Fair Use) that entitles it to make the Item available.

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Dc Identifier Other

870266721

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:scholarshare.temple.edu:20.500.12613/4150