The effect of connectivity on information in neural networks

Integr Biol (Camb). 2018 Feb 19;10(2):121-127. doi: 10.1039/c7ib00190h.

Abstract

We present a mathematical model that quantifies the amount of information exchanged in bi-dimensional networks of nerve cells as a function of network connectivity Q. Upon varying Q over a significant range, we found that, from a certain cell density onwards, 90% of the maximal information transferred I(Q) in a random neuronal network is already reached with just 40% of the total possible connections Q among the cells. As a consequence, the system would not benefit from additional connections in terms of the amount of I(Q), in agreement with the tendency of brains to minimize Q because of its energetic costs. The model may reveal the circuits responsible for neurodegenerative disorders in that neurodegeneration can be regarded as a connective failure affecting information.

MeSH terms

  • Action Potentials
  • Brain / anatomy & histology
  • Brain / physiology
  • Cluster Analysis
  • Computer Simulation
  • Humans
  • Information Theory
  • Models, Neurological*
  • Nerve Net / anatomy & histology
  • Nerve Net / physiology*
  • Systems Biology