Computational Modelling of Neural Network Growth and Dynamics
Lead Research Organisation:
Newcastle University
Department Name: Computing Sciences
Abstract
Many brain diseases are caused by changes of neural development; e.g. schizophrenia, autism, and certain kinds of epilepsy. These changes of development result in neural network topologies that differ from those of healthy subjects. Recent studies of EEG (electroencephalography) synchronization networks, for example, found characteristic changes in network organisation for Alzheimer, schizophrenia, and epilepsy patients. To understand these diseases, it is essential to find out which developmental factors lead to altered network topologies and resulting functional changes such as waves or large-scale activations (as during epileptic seizures). As in vitro experiments are often limited and conditions are hard to control, I propose to develop the first in silico model of neural development in order to test hypotheses and inform future experiments.This proposal introduces a new direction of research in computational Neuroanatomy by determining the role of developmental factors through high-performance computer simulations and methods from network science and graph theory. These aims will be reached through the following two objectives:(1) Linking developmental factor and network topology: Studying the role of timing, spatial layout, and activity on the generated neural topology. Whereas methods for network generation have been investigated in the field of network science, very few take into account the spatial organisation and timing and therefore most models are not realistic for biological systems.(2) Linking network topology and dynamics: Linking the topology yielded by developmental simulations to experimentally observable features (waves, latencies, oscillations). As not all topologies can be tested, we will focus those with similar characteristics as the retina observing wave propagation and those with similar properties to cortical fibre tract networks for observing latencies and oscillations. These questions are also at the core of two grand challenges: understanding the architecture of brain and mind (GC5, UK Comp. Res. Comm.) and Building Brains (GC4, EPSRC network 'Developing a Common Vision for UK research in Microelectronic Design'). Simply observing neural organisation might not be sufficient to understand how to translate this organisation to technical systems with different constraints. The proposed project can test which developmental configurations and resulting network topologies lead to equivalent dynamics and thus could identify configurations which lead to a scalable and feasible technical design. Insights into the relation between developmental factors and network behaviour will also help to explain developmental diseases potentially leading to new therapeutic treatments. We will discuss these applications with collaborators in engineering, developmental biology, and pharmaceutical research.
Publications
Bohr IJ
(2012)
Resting-state functional connectivity in late-life depression: higher global connectivity and more long distance connections.
in Frontiers in psychiatry
COMIN C
(2012)
STRUCTURE AND DYNAMICS: THE TRANSITION FROM NONEQUILIBRIUM TO EQUILIBRIUM IN INTEGRATE-AND-FIRE DYNAMICS
in International Journal of Bifurcation and Chaos
Echtermeyer C
(2011)
Integrating temporal and spatial scales: human structural network motifs across age and region of interest size.
in Frontiers in neuroinformatics
Echtermeyer C
(2011)
Automatic Network Fingerprinting through Single-Node Motifs
Echtermeyer C
(2011)
Automatic network fingerprinting through single-node motifs.
in PloS one
Kaiser M
(2010)
Optimal hierarchical modular topologies for producing limited sustained activation of neural networks.
in Frontiers in neuroinformatics
Kaiser M
(2009)
A simple rule for axon outgrowth and synaptic competition generates realistic connection lengths and filling fractions.
in Cerebral cortex (New York, N.Y. : 1991)
Description | We discovered several principles of the development of neural systems. We also developed novel tools to assess changes in brain networks. Our research led to 20 publications (peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, and book chapters). RA1 has won the PhD prize of the School of Computing Science and RA2 is moving on to a 4-year position at Imperial College London. A press release of our findings in 2011 led to national and international news covers (e.g. US News, Bloomberg). |
Exploitation Route | Findings are now use as a starting point for simulating human brain development. |
Sectors | Digital/Communication/Information Technologies (including Software) Healthcare |
URL | http://www.dynamic-connectome.org/ |
Description | BBSRC Grouped |
Amount | £80,000 (GBP) |
Funding ID | BB/F016980/1 |
Organisation | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) |
Sector | Public |
Country | United Kingdom |
Start | 09/2009 |
End | 09/2013 |
Description | Standard Grant |
Amount | £465,000 (GBP) |
Funding ID | EP/K026992/1 |
Organisation | Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) |
Sector | Public |
Country | United Kingdom |
Start | 08/2013 |
End | 08/2016 |