Biological Information Technology Systems - BITS: Information Processing in Designed Neuronal Circuits

设计神经元电路中的信息处理这个项目的目的是通过在设计电路中安排少量神经元来增强我们对信息处理的理解。这是一个理想的时机，因为：由于无血清培养基的进步，我们可以有意地设计神经元微电路，以支持相对纯净的神经元群体，在微光刻技术中，应用于蛋白质和其他生物分子的表面沉积，以及在了解条件下，稀疏模式的神经元群体在培养中变得功能活跃。由于先进的微电极阵列技术，我们可以研究这些神经元电路的信息处理能力，既可以刺激和记录电活动，也可以支持实时数据采集技术。我们可以利用丰富的信号处理和通信理论基础所衍生的神经编码理论来分析数据。我们有三个具体的目标，创造可靠的，可重复的，强健的培养海马神经元的神经回路。稳定的电路行为是进一步研究信息处理的必要条件。第一个目标强调几何性质，包括引导轴突延伸；第二个目标强调功能性质；第三个目标是神经元信息处理。要评估的模型包括速率码、精确定时码和相位同步码。

EIA-0130828 -Bruce C. Wheeler-University of Illinois-BITS: Information processing in Designed Neuronal CircuitsBITS: Information processing in Designed Neuronal CircuitsThe aim of this project is to enhance our understanding of information processing by small numbers of neurons arranged in designed circuits. This is an ideal time for this initiative because: We can intentionally design neuronal microcircuits due to progress in serum free media to support relatively pure neuronal populations, in microlithgraphy as applied to the deposition of proteins and other biomolecules to surfaces, and in understanding of the conditions under which sparse pattern populations of neurons become functionally active in culture.We can study the information processing capabilities of these neuronal circuits due to advances microelectrode array technology, permitting both stimulation and recording of electrical activity, as well as the supporting real-time data acquisition technology. We can analyze the data utilizing theories of neural coding derived as applications of rich theoretical foundations in signal processing and communications theory.We have three specific goals, creation of reliable, repeatable, robust neuronal circuits of cultured hippocampal neurons. Stable circuit behavior is essential to further investigation of information processing.The first aim emphasizes geometric properties, including guiding axonal extension, the second aim emphasizes functional properties, and the third aim is neuronal information processing. Models to be evaluated include rate codes, precise timing codes and phase synchronization codes.