Principles of Computational Modelling in Neuroscience

This book explains how to use techniques of computational modelling to understand the nervous system at all levels from ion channels to networks.

David Sterratt (Author), Bruce Graham (Author), Andrew Gillies (Author), David Willshaw (Author)

9780521877954, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 30 June 2011

404 pages, 178 b/w illus. 7 tables
25.3 x 19.4 x 2.3 cm, 1.02 kg

'Principles of Computational Modelling in Neuroscience sets a new standard of clarity and insight in explaining biophysical models of neurons. This provides a firm foundation for network models of brain function and brain development. I plan to use this textbook in my course on computational neurobiology.' Terrence Sejnowski, Salk Institute for Biological Studies and University of California, San Diego

The nervous system is made up of a large number of interacting elements. To understand how such a complex system functions requires the construction and analysis of computational models at many different levels. This book provides a step-by-step account of how to model the neuron and neural circuitry to understand the nervous system at all levels, from ion channels to networks. Starting with a simple model of the neuron as an electrical circuit, gradually more details are added to include the effects of neuronal morphology, synapses, ion channels and intracellular signalling. The principle of abstraction is explained through chapters on simplifying models, and how simplified models can be used in networks. This theme is continued in a final chapter on modelling the development of the nervous system. Requiring an elementary background in neuroscience and some high school mathematics, this textbook is an ideal basis for a course on computational neuroscience.

Preface
1. Introduction
2. The basis of electrical activity in the neuron
3. The Hodgkin Huxley model of the action potential
4. Compartmental models
5. Models of active ion channels
6. Intracellular mechanisms
7. The synapse
8. Simplified models of neurons
9. Networks
10. The development of the nervous system
Appendix A. Resources
Appendix B. Mathematical methods
References.

Subject Areas: Neurosciences [PSAN], Life sciences: general issues [PSA], Mathematical modelling [PBWH]