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Published on: May 9, 2021
Transition to burst synchronization in coupled neuron networks.
Yu Shen1, Zhonghuai Hou, Houwen Xin
1Department of Chemical Physics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, People's Republic of China.
Summary
This study explores how Hindmarsh-Rose bursting neurons transition to burst synchronization (BS) by altering coupling strength. It reveals two BS states and a dynamic cluster separation mechanism influencing neuronal behavior.
Area of Science:
- Computational Neuroscience
- Complex Systems
- Network Dynamics
Background:
- Burst synchronization (BS) is a key phenomenon in neural networks, where neurons initiate and terminate bursting activity concurrently.
- Understanding transitions between different synchronization states is crucial for deciphering complex neural dynamics.
- Previous studies have explored synchronization in coupled neuron models, but the specific transition mechanisms in chaotic regimes require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the transition from spatiotemporal chaos to different types of burst synchronization in a diffusively coupled Hindmarsh-Rose neuron network.
- To identify the underlying mechanisms driving these transitions, including dynamic cluster separation.
- To analyze the influence of network topology on burst synchronization phenomena.
Main Methods:
- Simulations of diffusively coupled Hindmarsh-Rose bursting neuron networks.
- Systematic variation of coupling strength (epsilon) to observe transitions in network dynamics.
- Analysis of neuronal bursting patterns (fold-homoclinic and fold-Hopf) and network clustering.
- Application of local mean field approximation to elucidate the synchronization mechanism.
Main Results:
- Increased coupling strength (epsilon) first tames spatiotemporal chaos into fold-homoclinic bursting synchronization.
- Further increase in coupling leads to a transition to fold-Hopf bursting synchronization via dynamic cluster separation.
- A critical neuron degree (k(c)) was identified, with neurons above this threshold exhibiting fold-Hopf bursting, and the product epsilon*k(c) remained nearly constant.
- Network topology plays a significant role in mediating these synchronization transitions.
Conclusions:
- The study elucidates a novel transition pathway to burst synchronization in coupled neuron networks, involving distinct bursting regimes and dynamic cluster separation.
- Local mean field approximation provides a viable mechanism for understanding these phenomena.
- The findings highlight the intricate interplay between network topology, coupling strength, and emergent synchronized dynamics in neuronal systems.
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