New directions for complex systems in contemporary neuroscience: a morphodynamic and emergent function approach

We propose that current Neuroscience approaches can benefit from further integrating morphodynamics across different scales of brain organization and neural network emergent functions in complex systems. While emergence in neuroscience is commonly addressed at higher organizational levels, here we consider neuronal morphology itself as an emergent level of organization. Progressing from form-based complexity views, early models of neuronal morphogenesis, and functional approaches, we integrate cell morphology to behavior with particular relevance to the following issues: (1) Neuronal Morphological Diversity and Circuitry Function, (2) Mother-Infant Relationships, and (3) Epilepsy and Neuropsychiatric Comorbidities. The structure of neurons and their connectivity within the brain volume are morphodynamic features that emerge from dynamic interactions among morphogenetic elements, the local cell neighborhood, and synaptic connections. In turn, the emergent functions of networks are organized around a series of conceptual, experimental, and computational foundations. Complex systems neuroscience combines such data with additional high- and multiscale information to develop models organized around structure, function, and behavioral displays in both normal and pathological conditions. Here, we present and discuss examples that approximate this framework, drawing on animal models and human data. Such an integrated approach aligns with the ongoing efforts promoted by UNESCO's "UniTwin Complex Systems Digital Campus" (CS-DC) to collaboratively address open, multiscale problems in neuroscience and complex systems.