Propagating activity patterns in large-scale inhibitory neuronal networks

The propagation of activity is studied in a spatially structured network model of gamma-aminobutyric acid-containing (GABAergic) neurons exhibiting postinhibitory rebound. In contrast to excitatory-coupled networks, recruitment spreads very slowly because cells fire only after the postsynaptic conductance decays, and with two possible propagation modes. If the connection strength decreases monotonically with distance (on-center), then propagation occurs in a discontinuous manner. If the self- and nearby connections are absent (off-center), propagation can proceed smoothly. Modest changes in the synaptic reversal potential can result in depolarization-mediated waves that are 25 times faster. Functional and developmental roles for these behaviors and implications for thalamic circuitry are suggested.