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Multiscale and Extended Retrieval of Associative Memory Structures in a Cortical Model of Local-Global Inhibition
Thomas F Burns1, Tatsuya Haga 芳賀 達也2, Tomoki Fukai 深井朋樹2
1Neural Coding and Brain Computing Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan t.f.burns@gmail.com.
Eneuro
|May 23, 2022
Summary
Understanding inhibitory neuron diversity is key to memory function. Balancing local and global inhibition in neural networks can significantly enhance memory recall range and precision.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Computational Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Inhibitory neurons exhibit diverse forms and functions, crucial for brain activity.
- Previous models of associative memory lacked biological detail, using unrealistic network structures.
- The precise role of inhibitory neuron diversity in memory retrieval remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how the balance between local and global inhibition influences memory retrieval in associative memory networks.
- To develop a biologically plausible computational model of memory retrieval incorporating distinct neuron types and realistic connectivity.
- To explore the functional implications of inhibitory neuron diversity for memory capacity and precision.
Main Methods:
- Developed a rate-based cortical model distinguishing excitatory, local inhibitory, and global inhibitory neurons.
- Implemented realistic neuronal connectivity schemas and sparse excitatory assemblies representing memory items.
- Simulated memory retrieval across naturalistic and artificial associative memory structures.
Main Results:
- The model demonstrates that a balance between local and global inhibition can quadruple the retrieval range of related memories.
- Specific distributions and rebalancing of inhibition between local and global subtypes significantly impact memory recall.
- Local inhibition dominance favors broader memory range, while global inhibition dominance strengthens a narrower range of memories.
Conclusions:
- Inhibitory neuron diversity, specifically the balance between local and global inhibition, plays a critical role in modulating memory retrieval.
- The findings suggest a biologically plausible mechanism for how inhibitory neuron subtypes contribute to memory flexibility and consolidation.
- This theoretical model highlights the functional significance of inhibitory diversity in associative memory, offering insights into memory choice and preference.
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