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Fault tolerance in noise-enhanced propagation
R Perazzo1, L Romanelli, R Deza
1Centro de Estudios Avanzados, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Uriburu 950, 1114 Buenos Aires, Argentina. perazzo@cea.uba.ar
Summary
This study models neuronal synaptic transmission using coupled bistable oscillators and noise. A critical coupling value reestablishes signal propagation past a "dead neuron," demonstrating fault tolerance.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Complex Systems
- Nonlinear Dynamics
Background:
- Synaptic transmission is crucial for neuronal communication.
- Bistable oscillators with noise can transmit signals.
- Understanding signal propagation in noisy networks is vital.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate signal propagation in a chain of coupled bistable oscillators mimicking synaptic transmission.
- To analyze the effect of localized noise on signal propagation.
- To identify emergent properties related to fault tolerance.
Main Methods:
- Numerical simulations of a one-way coupled chain of bistable oscillators.
- Application of uncorrelated additive noise to all nodes except the central one.
- Systematic variation of coupling strength and noise intensity.
Main Results:
- Signal propagation is interrupted below a critical coupling value when the central node is noise-free.
- Propagation is reestablished above this critical coupling value.
- Fault-tolerant behavior, enhancing reliability, emerges from the system.
Conclusions:
- The system exhibits emergent fault tolerance, similar to biological synapses.
- Coupling strength plays a critical role in overcoming signal interruption.
- This model provides insights into robust signal transmission in biological and artificial systems.