Noise, neural codes and cortical organization

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Abstract

Cortical circuitry must facilitate information transfer in accordance with a neural code. In this article we examine two candidate neural codes: information is represented in the spike rate of neurons, or information is represented in the precise timing of individual spikes. These codes can be distinguished by examining the physiological basis of the highly irregular interspike intervals typically observed in cerebral cortex. Recent advances in our understanding of cortical microcircuitry suggest that the timing of neuronal spikes conveys little, if any, information. The cortex is likely to propagate a noisy rate code through redundant, patchy interconnections.

Abbreviations

EPSP—excitatory postsynaptic potential
ips—impulses per second
IPSP—inhibitory postsynaptic potential
ISI—interspike interval
IT—inferotemporal
MST—medial superior temporal area
MT—middle temporal area
PSP—postsynaptic potential
V1—primary visual cortex

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